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KZN Police Renew Urgent Search for Chesterville Man Accused of Trying to Kill Nephew
A community on alert as a year-long manhunt gains new urgency
KwaZulu-Natal police have renewed calls for public assistance as the search continues for a Chesterville man accused of trying to murder his nine-year-old nephew. The case has unsettled many families in Durban, not only because of the brutality of the incident but also because the suspect managed to disappear after being released on bail.
A shocking attack that still haunts the neighbourhood
The alleged attack happened on 4 January 2024 in the Phola area of Chesterville. According to the South African Police Service, the child had travelled to visit his grandfather when he encountered his uncle, Sduduzo Mavundla. Police say Mavundla invited the boy to walk with him under the pretence that he would buy him snacks. Instead, he allegedly led him into a nearby bushy area.
What unfolded there has stayed with residents, who still speak about the case with disbelief. Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said the suspect confronted the child, accusing him of disrespecting their grandfather. The situation escalated, and the boy was reportedly strangled and stabbed in the face before losing consciousness.
Some time later, the young boy managed to wake up and crawl towards a nearby road, where strangers noticed him and rushed him to the hospital. His survival has often been described by community members as nothing short of remarkable.
A family misled, and a suspect who vanished
While the boy was being treated, police believe Mavundla convinced his mother to report the child missing at the Cato Manor police station. Investigators later arrested him, but after he appeared in court, he was released on bail. He then failed to return for his next appearance.
A warrant for his arrest was issued in September 2024. Since then, more than a year has passed, and the police have still not located him. The disappearance has caused frustration among community members who feel strongly that the case deserves closure and accountability.
Manhunt expands as authorities call on the public
KwaZulu-Natal police have now intensified the search and urged residents across the province to come forward with any information. Officers believe that someone has likely seen or spoken to the suspect during the long period he has been missing.
Police have appealed to anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to contact Investigating Officer Captain Ndlovu on 082 411 5609 or to report information anonymously to Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
As the manhunt continues, the case has become a reminder of how communities often play a critical role in bringing suspects to justice. Local conversations on social media reflect public anger and sadness, especially given that a young child was targeted.
A community hoping for justice
The SAPS has repeated its commitment to pursue the suspect until he is found. Residents of Chesterville and neighbouring areas say they want closure so that the child, his family, and the broader community can finally move forward.
For now, authorities continue to search while urging anyone with even the smallest detail to speak up. The message from the police is clear. The sooner the public helps trace him, the sooner the justice system can take its course.
Also read: Councillor Arrested after Gunshot Injures Two during Family Clash at Pienaar Funeral
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