A multi-year investigation by South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation has led to the arrest of two suspects accused of plotting to assassinate a government official who allegedly became a target after attempting to stop the illegal sale of state-subsidised housing.
The Hawks announced that the breakthrough operation uncovered an alleged conspiracy linked to corruption within the Department of Human Settlements and resulted in the seizure of a large collection of firearms, including an AK-47 assault rifle.
According to investigators, the case began after the government official lodged a formal complaint in 2024, alleging that criminal elements had targeted the official for interfering with the unlawful sale of RDP houses to individuals who were not legitimate beneficiaries.
Authorities said the threats escalated over time and allegedly included repeated death threats by telephone, attempted ambushes and a shooting incident.
Weapons seized during coordinated Hawks operation
Following months of intelligence gathering and surveillance, members of the East Rand Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit arrested 49-year-old Thulani Collen Ndwandwe in Mpumalanga on 2 July.
During a search of the suspect’s property, investigators recovered an AK-47 assault rifle, four 9mm pistols, a pump-action shotgun, two .308 rifles and an air rifle.
Although the firearms were reportedly licensed, the Hawks confiscated the weapons for urgent ballistic testing to determine whether they may have been used in other violent crimes.
The following day, investigators arrested 48-year-old Tonia Mphemba Hlongwane, an administrative clerk at the Department of Human Settlements’ Alberton offices.
Police allege Hlongwane played a central role in coordinating the alleged assassination conspiracy from within the department.
Digital forensic specialists also seized four laptops and seven mobile phones during the operation as investigators continue examining electronic evidence linked to the case.
Court proceedings continue as investigation expands
Both suspects appeared before the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where they were remanded in custody pending a bail hearing scheduled for 13 July.
They have been charged with conspiracy to commit murder under Section 18(2)(a) of South Africa’s Riotous Assemblies Act.
The Hawks described the arrests as the result of an extensive investigation involving intelligence-led policing, forensic analysis and coordinated law enforcement operations.
Authorities believe the case highlights the growing risks faced by public officials who expose corruption and interfere with organised criminal activities linked to government housing programmes.
Investigators are continuing to analyse the seized electronic devices and ballistic evidence to determine whether additional suspects or related criminal offences may be uncovered.
The Hawks said the investigation remains ongoing and forms part of broader efforts to combat organised crime, public sector corruption and politically motivated violence across South Africa.
Source: The Citizen