KNYSNA – A police captain has been killed in a shootout with a suspect during an early morning operation in Knysna today (26 August), dealing a devastating blow to authorities already reeling from three political murders in the coastal town last week.
The 50-year-old captain, attached to the provincial Tactical Response Team, died alongside a 38-year-old suspect during the gun battle at Sewende Laan informal settlement on Uniondale Road. Two illegal firearms were recovered from the suspect.
The operation was part of an intensified police investigation into the murders of three African National Congress members in separate shooting incidents last week that have plunged the Garden Route municipality into crisis.
Fatal shootout during firearms operation
The captain was part of an integrated police team executing an operation following up information about illegal firearms at the informal settlement when the fatal exchange of gunfire occurred.
Following Wednesday’s fatal shootout, psychosocial support is being provided to the police team at the scene as well as colleagues of the slain captain in Cape Town.
Western Cape Provincial Commissioner Lt Gen Sizakhele Dyantyi has conveyed condolences to the family and colleagues of the departed police official.
Three political murders in 24 hours
Former Knysna executive mayor and serving ward eight councillor Aubrey Tsengwa (48) was gunned down last week whilst driving in Ngxalo Street, Joodsekamp. A passenger in his vehicle was also wounded in the shooting.
Less than 24 hours later, former ward seven councillor Mandla Matiwane (47) and taxi forum secretary Mandla Tyololo (48) were shot dead whilst sitting in a vehicle in Bongani.
The relationship between Matiwane and Tyololo is believed to be significant to the investigation. Matiwane served as a state witness in the 2018 murder trial of ANC councillor Victor Molosi, in which Tyololo was accused of conspiracy to commit murder. Matiwane testified against Tyololo and opposed his release on bail. Tyololo spent over two years in custody before being acquitted by Knysna Regional Court in August 2020.
ALSO READ: Three high-ranking residents of Knysna shot dead in 48 hours
Minister satisfied with investigation progress
Three suspects appeared in Knysna Magistrate’s Court on 24 August facing charges of murder, attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder in connection with Tsengwa’s killing. A fourth suspect subsequently handed himself over to police. The matter was postponed to 31 August for a formal bail application.
Investigations into the murders of Matiwane and Tyololo remain ongoing, with detectives probing possible links between all three incidents.
Acting police minister Firoz Cachalia visited the families of the victims in Knysna on Tuesday.
Lt Gen Dyantyi conducted an earlier oversight visit on 22 August to assess the situation and meet with local stakeholders.
ALSO READ: Acting police minister visits Knysna following political murders
