Dedication and persistence from police detectives at Mondlo police station have resulted in the conviction of Mxolisi Buthelezi (40), who was sentenced to three terms of life imprisonment for the triple murder of Malusi Mabaso, Mlungisi Skhakhane, and another victim, known only as Themba. The sentence was handed down by the Pietermaritzburg High Court on 11 February 2025.
Buthelezi, who was already facing charges of rape, kidnapping, and murder, was linked to the triple murder after detectives connected him to the crime during their investigation of a separate murder case. While probing the killing of Bongani Xaba in Mvuyane, detectives uncovered evidence tying Buthelezi to the Nondweni murders.
On 2 May 2022, Buthelezi killed Mabaso, a taxi owner, and his two friends, Skhakhane and Themba. Buthelezi shot the trio, killing Mabaso and Skhakhane instantly, while Themba later died from his injuries in the hospital.
After his initial appearance at Nquthu Magistrate's Court, Buthelezi's case was moved to the Pietermaritzburg High Court, where he was found guilty of all three murders. This conviction follows a previous life sentence handed down for the murder of Bongani Xaba.