Emalahleni — Masakhane residents have reported multiple assaults, kidnappings and property destruction allegedly committed by seven men believed to be working for local tribal figure Mkhephula Jan Mahlangu.
Residents said the men disrupted operations at Adenco Mine construction site on 20 October 2025, and demanded that management be taken to the Royal House. Community Liaison Officer Leonard Mpofu said he informed them that Mahlangu is not officially recognised as a chief and has no authority over Ward 19.
Mpofu alleged that the same group kidnapped him on 27 October 2025 after he was summoned to a meeting point. He alleged that he was forced into a vehicle and taken to the Royal House, where he was accused of disrespecting Mahlangu and fined R2,000. He was only released after his site officer, Johan Laurens, paid for his release.
Another resident, Clifford Bulunga, was allegedly kidnapped the same day, also fined R2,000 and had his home ransacked. His crime, he says, is because he failed to appear after Mahlangu summoned him while he was at work. He was apparently charged with defying orders, leading to his kidnapping.
“The so-called chief wants everyone to obey him and insists on controlling all matters in the ward,” Mpofu said.
More incidents followed on 04 November 2025, when residents Vusi Sambo, Meshack Bulunga, Khethukuthula Manzini and Dinop Ntsane were allegedly assaulted.
Ntsane said she still has no idea why she was targeted. “I have never spoken to the Chief. We always pass each other on the street,” she said. “So I don’t know why I was attacked.”
During the confrontation Bulunga’s vehicle was set alight. “My car was burned in front of police officers there were bakkies there. My family has been threatened, and I don’t know where to turn for help. Our lives are in danger,” he said.
Residents said they reported the attacks to Witbank SAPS, which later conducted an operation at the Royal House. Police officers were allegedly overpowered and forced to withdraw and called for backup. Residents claimed vandalism and theft continued after police retreated, with several homes looted.
Some community members believe the attacks may be linked to long-standing tensions between Mahlangu and two local civic structures — the Mpumalanga Forum and the Masakhane GH Forum, which assist residents with employment opportunities. Victims who belong to these forums said they have never provoked Mahlangu and have no idea why they are being targeted.
Chairperson of the Masakhane GH Forum, Sambo, said. “I am confused as to why we were attacked. We didn’t do anything wrong. We have never done anything to Mkhephula. According to us, he is just a disruptive person.”
When contacted for comment, Mahlangu’s spokesperson, Erick Sifunda, refused to respond to the allegations. “The issue is with SAPS, go ask them or your forums. On our side, no comment,” he said.
Witbank SAPS confirmed that Mahlangu was arrested at midnight on 04 November 2025 on a charge of extortion after Mpofu and Bulunga paid for their release.
Mahlangu was released the following day due to insufficient evidence linking him to the additional alleged crimes reported by residents. Police said the investigation is ongoing and more arrests are expected.
Police spokesperson Captain Eddie Hall condemned the ongoing violence. “As SAPS, we condemn all acts of intimidation, violence and extortion. We urge community members to report any unlawful activities and allow police investigations to proceed,” he said.
