Chronicle Editor
Ngoqokazi, Durban– Tensions in ward 56 of Ngoqokazi, north of Durban, have reached a boiling point following a violent attack on Benzile Cele, a key witness in a major housing scandal involving local councillor Mr Nyaba.
Cele, who has already endured a series of threats and assaults since coming forward, was attacked at her home—a house she received through her voluntary work with the councillor.
This latest incident follows escalating intimidation tactics aimed at silencing Cele, who has provided damning testimony accusing Nyaba of embezzling funds meant for affordable housing developments.
The attack on her home adds to a string of violent acts, including the arson of her salon—her primary livelihood—and a previous gang rape ordeal.
Residents of Ngoqokazi are stunned by the brazenness of the attacks. Many suspect the violence is being orchestrated by Nyaba and his associates, as Cele’s testimony poses a significant threat to their alleged corruption.
Local community members have expressed rising concerns for Cele’s safety, criticizing law enforcement for failing to protect her. One resident, speaking anonymously out of fear for their own safety, shared their frustration:
“Benzile has been incredibly brave in exposing corruption, but it’s clear that those responsible will stop at nothing to silence her. First, it was threats, then they destroyed her salon, and now they’ve attacked her in her own home. What will it take for the police to act?”
Community leader Ms. Hlambisa also condemned the attack, calling for immediate intervention to protect Cele and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“This is an outrageous act of intimidation. Benzile’s courage to speak out against injustice should be celebrated, not punished. We demand swift action from the police to protect her and other witnesses involved in this case,” she said.
The housing scandal has rocked ward 56 since it came to light last year, with allegations that Nyaba misused funds intended for affordable housing projects. Cele’s insider knowledge, gained during her time volunteering under Nyaba, has placed her at the center of the investigation. However, her bravery has come at a high cost, as she continues to face relentless intimidation and violence.
The attack on Cele’s home has further shaken the already tense community. Residents have accused law enforcement of turning a blind eye, with some alleging that local police are complicit in protecting the councillor.
“We feel abandoned by the authorities. If even someone as courageous as Benzile isn’t safe, what hope do the rest of us have?” another resident lamented.
The KwaZulu-Natal police have confirmed that an investigation into the arson attack on Cele’s salon and the attack on her home is underway. However, many residents remain skeptical of any meaningful action being taken.
The violence against Cele has brought urgent attention to the culture of impunity in Ngoqokazi, where standing up to corruption often comes with dangerous consequences. Yet, her resilience in the face of such adversity has become a symbol of both hope and fear for the community.
As the investigation into the housing scandal and the attacks against Cele continues, one thing is clear: the fight for justice in ward 56 is far from over. For now, the community watches anxiously, hoping that Benzile Cele’s bravery will lead to accountability rather than further violence.
Bongani Ndlovu