According to South African Police Service (SAPS) statements, Khwela was in his office (at a community/Sizakala centre) consulting with several residents when an unknown man arrived and posed as someone needing assistance. Khwela went outside to help him. The suspect then drew a firearm and shot him multiple times. Khwela was declared dead at the scene. The gunman fled on foot (some later reports suggest he may have gotten into a waiting vehicle).
Police described the attack as targeted. The motive remains unknown. Different SAPS units were at the active crime scene collecting evidence, and a manhunt was immediately launched.
Later on the same day, police confirmed that the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) had taken over the investigation. Detectives from the unit were already on the ground. The PKTT specialises in cases that may have a political dimension.
Reactions
- The ANC in eThekwini and KwaZulu-Natal expressed shock, sadness and condemnation. Regional convenor Thabani Nyawose and other leaders visited the family at the scene. They described Khwela as a disciplined, long-serving councillor (about 10 years of service) who was near the end of the current term and had indicated he would not seek re-election after the municipal elections scheduled around early November 2026. The party said it was trusting the police investigation and would not speculate on motive (political, community-related, or other) until more information emerges. They appealed for calm.
- Provincial ANC spokesperson Sifiso Sonjica called the killing barbaric and an attack on democratic institutions and community service.
Community members gathered outside the office in the aftermath. Local leaders, including eThekwini municipal figures, also expressed condolences and raised concerns about councillor safety.
Context and current status
Klaarwater is a residential area in the western part of eThekwini. Political violence and targeted killings of councillors and political figures have been a recurring problem in parts of KwaZulu-Natal for years, which is why specialised units like the PKTT exist. At this stage, however, no confirmed political motive has been publicly established, and police have not released a suspect description beyond the basic account of the attack.
As of the latest reports from 6 August 2026 (evening), the manhunt continues, the investigation is active under the PKTT, and no arrests have been announced. Anyone with information is urged to contact the police (Crime Stop or local stations).
