BARBERTON: ActionSA strongly condemns the brutal murder of ActionSA member and Umjindini Trust Community Policing Forum (CPF) Chairperson, Mr Shumbuzo Khumalo, who was gunned down on Monday while responding to a criminal incident in his community.
According to information received, an armed suspect allegedly attempted to rob a local shop and shot at the shop owner while demanding that she open the door. When the owner cried out for help, Mr Khumalo responded and pursued the suspect as he fled the scene. It is alleged that he attempted to apprehend the suspect but was shot and fatally wounded.
According to ActionSA reports further indicate that community members contacted the police during the incident and urgently requested assistance. However, police reportedly failed to make themselves available, by which time the tragedy had already unfolded. While the circumstances remain subject to investigation, these allegations raise serious concerns about police responsiveness and the ability of residents to access timely assistance during emergencies.
ActionSA says is deeply concerned about the worsening safety situation in Umjindini Trust. Residents continue to report high levels of crime, limited police visibility, and delays in receiving assistance, often being told that no vehicles are available to respond to emergencies.
Khumalo was lay to rest on Saturday last week 30 June 2026.
