No Bail For Boyfriend Accused Of Killing Ayabonga Mjilo, Victim Found Buried In Yard

The man accused of kidnapping and killing 23-year-old Ayabonga Mjilo and burying her in his backyard in Inanda, 37-year-old Mfanafuthi Kunene, has been remanded in custody following his appearance at the Durban Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

Kunene, who reportedly worked as a call centre manager in uMhlanga, will remain in custody until his next court appearance on February 26, pending further investigations.

Accused Abandons Bail Application

A limping and bruised Kunene appeared before Magistrate Sicelo Zuma in Court 11, with Legal Aid lawyer Ntando Cele representing him. He confirmed his decision to abandon his bail application. State Prosecutor Desiree Boyang Mlondo requested additional time to finalise witness statements and DNA evidence.

Kunene’s arrest followed the discovery of Mjilo’s body at his Amaotana home on Saturday. KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda revealed that the two had been seen together leaving a restaurant in uMhlanga on Christmas Day. When Mjilo failed to return home, her family reported her missing at Greenwood Park Police Station, leading to the investigation.

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“Thorough investigations uncovered the identity of the man who was last seen with the missing woman,” said Colonel Netshiunda. “It was discovered that the accused, her former supervisor, took her to his home, where an altercation occurred, and he allegedly strangled her to death before burying her body in his yard.”

Ayabonga Mjilo’s Family Devastation

Mjilo’s family, who were present in court along with KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, expressed their heartbreak over the loss. Mthi Mjilo, speaking on behalf of the family, highlighted their ongoing grief, referencing the murder of seven relatives in Highflats just months earlier.

“It’s painful that every time you see us, it’s because another family member has been murdered,” said Mthi. “We need justice for Ayabonga, but we are concerned about whether we will get it because sometimes evidence that seems clear isn’t enough in court.”

Nontobeko Mjilo, Ayabonga’s sister, thanked the police for their dedication, stating, “Greenwood Park SAPS worked tirelessly to find my sister. While we are devastated that she was not found alive, we now hope the law will ensure justice is served.”

Calls to Address Gender-Based Violence

Mjilo’s murder has reignited outrage over gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in KwaZulu-Natal. Premier Ntuli condemned the violence, urging families and communities to address the issue collaboratively.

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“Gender-based violence has tarnished our province, making it unsafe for residents and tourists alike. It demands collective action from all citizens to reject these barbaric acts,” Ntuli emphasised.

Kunene faces charges of murder, kidnapping, and defeating the ends of justice. With the investigation ongoing and the case attracting widespread attention, all eyes are on the justice system to ensure accountability in this tragic case.

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