By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
A case of assault has been opened against former Mtubatuba mayor Mandla Zungu and security officers who assaulted Zululand Observer senior journalist Gaddafi Zulu at Mtubatuba Municipality.
Zulu had gone there to interview council speaker Sbongile Shezi.
His laptop, cellphone and notepad were confiscated by officials during the assault, and were only returned to him – damaged – after he opened a case with the police.
The Zululand Observer’s editor-in-chief, Dave Savides, said Zulu was slapped and punched in the face and upper body. His work equipment was confiscated and damaged.
“Zulu managed to flee and opened a case of assault at Mtubatuba SAPS. Police subsequently escorted him to the municipality to retrieve his phone and laptop. His notebook is still being held at the municipality,” added Savides.
He said the attack on Zulu infringed on his right to report on an event of public interest and vowed to ensure his attackers were held accountable.
Savides added: “Municipalities are the property of the ratepayer and taxpayer – not the personal domain under ownership of those employed there or voted into positions of service.
“Not only was he assaulted by so-called bodyguards, but his cellphone and computer were confiscated and damaged. We do not take this incident lightly, nor will authorities in the media spectrum. There can be no justification for this behaviour; it’s not as though the journalist was a threat to safety and security. This was thuggery, plain and simple.”
KwaZulu-Natal police said the incident was being investigated.