Bio

Bongani Vilakati was born in 1967 in Swaziland. He grew up in a community that is now known as Malkerns, which is located near Mbabane, the capital city of Swaziland. Information about his early life is limited, but it is clear that he faced various struggles as he was growing up.

As a young man, Bongani lived with his family, including his father, Jabhi Vilakati. The family faced challenges that affected their relationships. Not much is known about his experiences in school or his friendships. However, it is likely that his early environment influenced his later actions.

In July 2000, Bongani became infamously known after the discovery of six bodies buried on his farm. The police were alerted to his activities after some people who worked for him came forward. They revealed the grim details about the bodies, one of which was identified as his brother. Following the discovery, he managed to evade the police for about eight months.

In March 2001, police managed to track him down. When they found him, a chase ensued, resulting in him being shot and killed. His father's response to his death showed the family's struggle, as Jabhi was unsure how to handle the aftermath or the funeral expenses. A senator in Swaziland eventually helped cover the costs for Bongani’s burial, since the family struggled to do so.

Murder Story

In July 2000, the Swaziland police discovered the bodies of six people buried at Bongani Vilakati's farm in Malkerns. These bodies included his brother and several children. The victims were reportedly suffocated using plastic bags. After the initial discovery, Bongani Vilakati was linked to the crime through two Mozambicans he had hired to dig the graves. They were arrested for their assistance in the case.

For eight months, Vilakati managed to evade authorities until he was finally spotted by police. A chase ensued in a maize field, and police shot him during the attempt to apprehend him. He was unarmed at the time. Following his death, there was significant media criticism regarding the police's action, as the authorities could have potentially gathered more information from him about other missing persons.

In August 2000, alarmed by the grisly findings, the police were actively investigating further murders in the area. They uncovered the remains of 28 additional victims over the following months, which heightened fears among local residents and prompted speculation about a possible serial killer on the loose.

Vilakati was shot on March 29, 2001, during his attempted escape. After his death, his family was reportedly unwilling to pay for his funeral. Senator Mbho Shongwe assisted with the burial costs, and Vilakati was laid to rest at Manzini Cemetery after being kept in a mortuary for three months.