PIGG’S PEAK – Two teenage boys aged 17, both pupils at a high school in northern Hhohho, have been arrested along with a relative for allegedly murdering a 23-year-old man.
The suspects, said to be doing Forms I and II, are all from an area around Buhleni.
According to sources, the trio were watching soccer at their home on Saturday when the deceased, identified as Colani Welcome Manana, allegedly returned from a drinking spot and began attacking them.
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The boys reportedly tried to flee from Manana, who was allegedly armed with a knife. They were later seen by elders from the area and are said to have confided that they were being pursued.
“The elders tried to intervene and stop Manana from attacking the teenagers, but he allegedly ignored them,”
a source said.
Confrontation Turns Fatal
After the altercation, the boys reportedly returned home. A while later, Manana allegedly followed them to their homestead, seeking to confront their grandfather.
While he was speaking to the elderly man, Manana reportedly spotted one of the boys and began assaulting him. The boys’ grandfather is said to have ordered Manana to leave the premises after the confrontation.
Later that day, the teenagers allegedly waylaid Manana near his home, where they assaulted him, reportedly stoning him in the process. The deceased sustained serious injuries.
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Manana managed to return home, but was found in critical condition by a family member. Before being taken to the hospital, he allegedly identified the three teenagers as his attackers.
The boys’ grandfather was called to the scene and confirmed finding Manana severely injured. He was rushed to Mkhuzweni Health Centre, where he died while receiving treatment.
Police Confirmation
Acting Chief Police Information and Communications Officer, Assistant Superintendent Nosipho Mnguni, confirmed the incident.
“Three boys aged 17 have been arrested in connection with the murder of a 23-year-old man,”
she said.
Police investigations into the matter are ongoing.
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