The Durban Regional Court, in KwaZulu Natal, has convicted and sentenced Wesley Matiri Madonsela (53) to 10 years of direct imprisonment for the murder of political activist Siphelele Nxumalo, who was only 17 at the time and a member of the United Democratic Front (UDF).

The court heard that on 2 February 1989, Nxumalo was on the road when he was approached by Madonsela and his accomplices. They shot and killed him on the spot before fleeing the scene. The Hawks spokesperson in KZN Brigadier Thandi Mbambo said information from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report explained that Madonsela was a member of Chesterville A-team, which worked with the Natal Security Branch during the political conflict between UDF and Inkatha Freedom Party supporters. Mbambo said a case of murder was reported at Cato Manor police station but Madonsela disappeared soon after the murder.

He was later arrested, appeared in court and was granted bail. "He then absconded and allegedly fled the country. A warrant of arrest was issued and the case docket was filed. Madonsela has been on the run since then and he never appeared before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). In July 2023, he was traced and arrested by the Hawk's Serious Organised Crime Investigation, based in Durban, and assigned to deal with TRC cases in the province, then ultimately convicted and sentenced," she said. The National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Lieutenant General Advocate Godfrey Lebeya commended the work of the investigation and prosecution team that have worked tirelessly to conclude this long outstanding matter and bring the accused to book.