Nqubeko Bright Mchunu vanished after being freed on bail for the murder of Tshepo Maseko, who was murdered during a protest, and Mpumalanga police have initiated a manhunt for him.

Mchunu, 41, is charged with shooting and killing Maseko, 33, in August 2022 at a protest by Steve Tshwete Municipality when residents were protesting seeking pay raises and other benefits.

Mchunu was employed in the Middleburg headquarters of the municipality at the time.

Colonel Donald Mdhluli, the spokesperson for the Mpumalanga police, stated that Mchunu made his initial appearance at the Middleburg Magistrate’s Court on August 19, 2022, and was then granted an R10,000 bail in September of the same year.

“The legal proceedings persisted until March 9, 2023, after which Mchunu did not appear in court again. A warrant for his arrest was issued, and the case was rescheduled for April 11, 2023, according to Mdhluli.

He added that Mchunu was originally from Mbongolwane, near Eshowe in KwaZulu-Natal.

Police request anyone who might have information about Mchunu’s whereabouts to contact the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Sizwe Malinga, on 079 286 8550, or the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.

Alternatively, information can be shared via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.