The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has confirmed the tragic death of Elona Sombulula (30), a young District Court prosecutor, based in Ngcobo Magistrate Court. It was reported that Elona was shot on the evening of Tuesday, 29 April 2025. He joined NPA through the aspirant prosecutor programme in 2022, and was acting as Regional Court prosecutor, when he met his ultimate death.
According to the Director of Public Prosecuting in the Eastern Cape Barry Madolo, this devastating incident has sent waves of grief through the NPA. “Our Thoughts are first with Sombulula’s family, friends and colleagues. We send our condolences to you at this unimaginably difficult time,” said Madolo.
NPA Regional spokesperson Luxolo Tyali stressed that the South African Police Service is working tirelessly to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. He said NPA will work closely with the SAPS. “We will not rest until those responsible face justice,” said Tyali.
Meanwhile the National Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Shamila Batohi, condemned the killing in the strongest terms. “Any attack on a prosecutor is an attack on the rule of law, on justice and on the very foundation of our constitutional democracy. Our deepest condolences to Mr Sombulula’s family and loved ones. We will honour his memory by continuing the work he so bravely carried out,” she concluded.
The motive for the killing was unknown and NPA urged restraint as a thorough investigation is underway. Furthermore, details of the funeral and memorial service will be communicated in due course.
