Suspects in IFP MP Khethamabala Sithole’s murder to appear in court

The late Deputy Chief Whip in Parliament, Khethamabala Petros “KP” Sithole.

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Two suspects arrested in connection with the murder of Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) MP Khethamabala Sithole are expected to appear in the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court in the east of Johannesburg on Thursday.

Sithole was killed at Buyafuthi hostel in Katlehong last week after unknown men opened fire during a meeting.

Gauteng police spokesperson, Mavela Masondo, says the suspects will face charges of murder and two counts of attempted murder.

“It was reported that unknown men opened fire on the group of people gathered for a meeting. Sithole was declared dead on the scene while two more people were taken to hospital with gunshot injuries. One of the two injured was treated and discharged, while the other one is still in hospital. On Monday 2 June 2025, the team brought in three people for questioning. Two of them, aged 30 and 32, were linked to the incident, while the third person was released. More arrests are expected as the investigation continues.”

[IFP MP KILLERS ARRESTED] 2 suspects have been arrested in connection with the murder of IFP MP Mr Khethamabala Sithole.The pair will appear before the PalmRidge Magistrate Court today on a charge of murder.The MP was shot multiple times at Buyafuthi hostel in Katlehong on 31 May pic.twitter.com/qZjITDE7Pn

— Athlenda Mathe (@AthlendaM) June 5, 2025

IFP welcomes arrest

The IFP says it welcomes the arrest of two suspects linked to Sithole’s murder.

In a statement, the party states: “We commend the South African Police Service and the task team assigned to the case for the swift progress made since the tragic incident on 31 May 2025. We are encouraged by the announcement from the Office of the Provincial Commissioner in Gauteng regarding the breakthrough in this case, and we continue to place our trust in the justice system to ensure that all those involved — not just the two suspects arrested — are brought to book. We further urge the SAPS to leave no stone unturned in uncovering the full truth behind this assassination.”