Husband convicted of murdering wife due in Pinetown court for sentencing

Lwanda Mxolisi Zungu, who was convicted in July for the 2024 murder of his wife, Tania Msane Zungu, is due back at the Pinetown Regional Court on Friday, 2 October 2026 for sentencing proceedings.

Guilty verdict and rejected defence

Magistrate Muntu Khumalo found Zungu guilty of murdering his wife and rejected his account that the gun discharged during a struggle between the couple. The magistrate said “his version, that the gun was fired while he and Tania struggled over the weapon, was false.”

Charges and discharged count

Zungu had pleaded not guilty and denied shooting Tania, saying they had argued and struggled over a firearm after she allegedly pointed it at him. A second count, that he had pointed a firearm at his then-15-year-old son, was discharged after the State did not lead evidence on that allegation.

Family response

Tania’s mother, Patience Msane, said she hopes for a harsh sentence to be handed down to Zungu.

Case timeline key facts

• Accused: Lwanda Mxolisi Zungu
• Victim: Tania Msane Zungu
• Court: Pinetown Regional Court
• Next appearance: Friday, 2 October 2026, for sentencing proceedings
• Conviction: Found guilty in July 2026 of murdering Tania in 2024
• Second count: Discharged after the State led no evidence