Crime in SA | Relationships that end in murder

KWAMBONAMBI - Recent killings of police officers – allegedly at the hands of their wives – highlights the dangers of unresolved marital issues.

Most recently, Warrant Officer Nkosinathi Ntinga and Metro Police officer Captain Zwelakhe Ntombela have been killed in KwaZulu-Natal.

Ntinga was shot and killed after a home invasion last month. He and a friend, admin clerk Mpendulo Mdluli were kidnapped from Ntinga’s home in KwaMbonambi.

A day later, his wife – Sergeant Ntombizodwa Ntinga – was in the dock, along with an alleged hitman.

Police investigations pointed to her as the alleged mastermind.

Less than a week ago, Faith Ntombela – the wife of murdered Metro Police captain Zwelakhe Ntombela – was linked to his May assassination.

For one activist, these cases highlight how some men could be suffering in silence.

Phiwo Mathenjwa has taken up the fight on behalf of men who are victimised.

She was recently at the bail hearing for the Ntinga murder-accused.

She says there are always warning signs.

The KZN social development department admits more can be done to create a conducive environment for both genders to report abuse.

"I think it's a perception level. There is still a perception that when you talk about gender-based violence, you are referring to violence against women," said Vusi Khoza.

"And I think as a sector we need to raise awareness that the term includes everybody -- men, women, boys and girls."

Khoza says men and women are equally at risk due to relationship challenges.

But, there’s also the element of greed.

Regarding the attacks on police officers, the Hawks say there is no excuse for troubled partners not to reach out to them.

For anyone else, government says there is also free help available to defuse potentially life-threatening situations.

* eNCA’s Dasen Thathiah reports.