The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State has registered a case of murder and deployed high-level specialized units following the fatal shooting of Democratic Alliance (DA) Ward 14 candidate and Metsimaholo Caucus Leader, Michael Thulani Mbana.
The Provincial Commissioner of the Free State, Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia, has activated the Zamdela Trio Task Team and the Serious Organised Crime Unit to spearhead the investigation, trace the suspects, and establish the motive behind the killing.
The incident occurred at approximately 21:40 on Monday evening, 26 October 2026, at Mbana’s residence in Taylor Park, Zamdela. It is alleged that two unknown males approached the house and called the councillor outside.
When Mbana approached them, one of the suspects pulled out a firearm and shot him several times at close range. Both suspects subsequently fled the scene on foot. Mbana sustained multiple gunshot wounds and died at the scene.
SAPS has confirmed that the motive for the killing has not yet been established. Authorities note that it is too early to confirm whether the attack was politically motivated, though the upcoming local government elections are just days away.
Lieutenant General Lesia reiterated that criminality and acts of violence will not be tolerated, stating that SAPS remains committed to enforcing the law impartially.
Additionally, the Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (ProvJOINTS) is actively coordinating security measures to ensure safe and incident-free elections.
Police have strongly cautioned the public against spreading unverified information or speculation on social media platforms, warning that such actions could compromise the integrity of the active investigation.
“The Provincial Commissioner of the Free State, Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia, has activated the Zamdela Trio Task Team and Serious Organised Crime Unit to investigate the murder, trace and apprehend the suspects, and establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“The motive for the killing has not yet been established, and it has not been confirmed whether the incident is politically motivated. All possible leads are being pursued as part of the ongoing investigation.”
The news has triggered widespread grief across Metsimaholo. Executive Mayor Cllr Jack Malindi expressed profound shock, calling the loss a heartbreaking end to a life dedicated to public service.
“The news of Cllr Mbana’s untimely death has left us deeply shaken and saddened. It is heartbreaking that a life dedicated to public service has been cut short in such tragic circumstances. Our municipality has lost a colleague whose contribution to local governance and community development will be sorely missed.
“Cllr Mbana still had much to contribute to the people of Metsimaholo. His passing leaves a painful void in our local government structures and among those who shared his commitment to improving the lives of our residents. Beyond his political responsibilities, he was a fellow human being, a family member, a friend and a leader whose loss will be felt by many.
“At this profoundly difficult time, our thoughts are with his family, loved ones, political colleagues and everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Democratic Alliance and all those mourning this devastating loss,” said Cllr Malindi.
The DA Free State leadership noted that Mbana had been a dedicated champion of his community since joining the party in 2017, previously serving as the MMC for Spatial Planning and Human Settlements.
The party acknowledged receiving cross-party messages of condolence from ANC MEC Ketso Makhume and Jan van Niekerk of the Freedom Front Plus.
“The DA appreciates the messages of condolences from MEC Ketso Makhume on behalf of the African National Congress and Jan van Niekerk of the Freedom Front Plus.
“Thulani will be remembered as a dedicated public servant and a champion of his community,” said DA Free State leader, Roy Jankielsohn.
