Culpable homicide probe launched into death of Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba

Police are investigating a case of culpable homicide following the death of Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba, who was run over by a vehicle in Newcastle on Saturday morning while jogging. 

“Police in Newcastle have opened a culpable homicide case for investigation following a road accident where a man was reportedly hit by a vehicle on Allen Street in Newcastle on Saturday morning, July 4, 2026,” said KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda. 

“Reports indicate that the driver of a bakkie was driving on Allen Street when a pedestrian allegedly attempted to cross the road. The driver reportedly attempted to avoid the pedestrian, but his efforts failed, and the pedestrian was knocked down. The victim was taken to a local clinic, where he later died.”

Netshiunda said that investigations are under way.

Mahlaba, 44, was serving as an ANC member of the Provincial Task Team (PTT), KZN legislature (MPL) member, and the chairperson of Committees in the KZN legislature. He also served as Newcastle Local Municipality mayor, Sport, Arts and Culture MEC and Public Works and Human Settlements MEC. He was also the longstanding chairperson of the ANC in the Mbuso Kubheka Region, the former chairperson of the ANC Youth League, and the former ANC Provincial Treasurer.

Speaking to Isolezwe on Sunday, Mahlaba’s younger sister, Nondumiso, said her brother’s death shattered the family. 

“It was unexpected, but we trust God through the process. Ntuthuko was everything in our home, one of the strongest family members we have at home,” Nondumiso said. 

She said they will announce funeral arrangements during the week. For now, she can only say that he will be buried where he was born, at KwaGrace, in Nquthu, even though he was based in Newcastle.

On Sunday, KZN ANC leadership visited the Mahlaba homestead in eNkande village, Inkosi Bhambatha Region, to pay their respects. 

ANC KZN provincial coordinator Mike Mabuyakhulu revealed the driver of the vehicle that struck Mahlaba did not flee the scene after the accident. He said it was untrue that the driver fled the scene after the incident. 

“It is not true that the driver fled. What I can say is that they were there, they stayed until family and police arrived, and they explained the whole situation that occurred. What we wish for now is for the police to carry out their investigation to the end,” Mabuyakhulu said.

He noted that Mahlaba was of great help to the community as he assisted with various initiatives.

“He had a programme where he donated shoes to different students across our province, and he also helped people with disabilities with their wheelchairs, which is something that means a lot to the community. He touched many people in the community we live in. We have lost as the ANC party because he was also helpful in various things,” said Mabuyakhulu.

thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za