Harrismith – A 31-year-old man from Bufferzone in Intabazwe near Harrismith has been arrested in connection with the alleged murder of his 67-year-old uncle, police confirmed.
The victim, identified as Jay Simon Ngconwane, was found deceased in his bedroom on 2 February 2026, lying in a pool of blood with multiple stab wounds to his legs and head.
“At approximately 05:50, police were summoned to Bufferzone following reports of an elderly person who had been murdered,” said the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“Upon arrival, officers discovered the body of Mr. Ngconwane, and a case of murder was immediately opened for further investigation.”
Later that day, police located the suspect at his shack, where he reportedly barricaded himself inside. “At about 14:00, our officers forced entry after the suspect had locked himself in.
During the operation, he allegedly attacked police with a knife, and officers responded accordingly, shooting him in the leg. He sustained injuries and was taken into custody,” SAPS said.
#sapsFS #SAPS Harrismith arrested a 31yr-old man from Bufferzone in Intabazwe near Harrismith, following the alleged murder of his 67yr-old uncle, who was found deceased in a bedroom lying in a pool of blood. Murder weapon seized. He is expected to appear before the Harrismith… pic.twitter.com/z8Z5NwbqMK
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) February 3, 2026
During a subsequent search of the property, police recovered several items, including a blood-stained spade believed to have been used in the killing, a plastic bag containing drugs, one rifle round of ammunition, and the knife used in the alleged attack. All items have been seized as exhibits.
The suspect faces multiple charges, including murder, common assault, possession of a dangerous weapon, possession of unlicensed ammunition, and possession of drugs.
He is expected to appear in the Harrismith Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 4 February 2026.
The shooting incident has been referred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for further investigation.
A police spokesperson added, “The Harrismith police acted promptly to ensure public safety and to apprehend the suspect following the brutal attack on his uncle and subsequent assault on our officer.”
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
