When money turns deadly: Gauteng court hears how a loan dispute escalated to torture and murder. Picture Credit: Mybroadband
By Aisha Zardad
Gauteng – A Gauteng woman, Busisiwe Dladla (47), has been convicted of the murder of Mzwandile Konki, following a dispute over a R15,000 loan, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed. The case involved multiple abductions, threats, and physical abuse, which ultimately led to Konki’s death.
According to Phindi Mjonondwane, NPA spokesperson, Konki was first abducted on 5 September 2022, after failing to repay the loan. While he was detained, his family received threats and was pressured to pay money for his release. Konki was freed temporarily, only to be kidnapped again four days later. Mjonondwane stated: “During the second kidnapping, the deceased was tortured and assaulted by four unidentified men, believed to have been hired by Dladla. Konki later succumbed to his injuries.”
Investigations further revealed that money extorted from Konki’s family was first deposited into the account of Dladla’s daughter, Sinethemba Dladla (25), and later transferred to her younger sister, Cebisile Dladla (41), apparently to conceal the source of the funds. Both Sinethemba and Cebisile were subsequently charged and convicted of money laundering.
During her trial, Dladla denied having any involvement with the perpetrators responsible for Konki’s torture. However, State Advocate Colleen Ryan presented WhatsApp messages directly linking Dladla to the attackers. The court rejected Dladla’s account, finding her testimony inconsistent with the evidence.
The court has scheduled sentencing for 15 April 2026. Dladla remains in custody, while her co-accused have been released on bail pending sentencing.
Authorities emphasised that the case demonstrates the extreme risks of violent debt collection and the importance of handling financial disputes through legal and safe channels.
