KNYSNA, Western Cape — In response to a deadly wave of targeted violence, several Knysna councillors have been urgently relocated to safe houses across the Western Cape. The heightened security measures follow the assassinations of three individuals over a 48-hour period, including former Knysna mayor Aubrey Tsengwa and former Ward 7 councillor Mandla Matiwane, prompting a massive reinforcement of specialized police units in the region.
The violence began on Wednesday night in Concordia, where ANC Ward 8 Councillor and former mayor Aubrey Tsengwa was fatally shot. Law enforcement officials report that Tsengwa was driving a vehicle with three other passengers when an unidentified gunman approached and opened fire. Tsengwa was pronounced dead at the scene, while one of the passengers sustained injuries requiring immediate hospitalization.
The following night, the bloodshed continued in Bongani. ANC member and former Ward 7 Councillor Mandla Matiwane was killed alongside Mandla Tyololo, a local taxi boss and fellow ANC member. The two men were ambushed by attackers while seated inside a vehicle parked outside Tyololo’s residence.
Condemning the attacks, a spokesperson for the ANC’s provincial leadership expressed profound sorrow for the bereaved families. The spokesperson described the victims as having been “cowardly assassinated by criminals who continue to senselessly go around on a shooting spree and terrorizing our communities.” The party confirmed it is actively coordinating with provincial police leadership and the national minister to deploy specialized tactical units to stabilize the security environment in Knysna.
To mitigate further threats, the Knysna Municipality has initiated emergency protection protocols for its elected officials and administrative staff. A municipal spokesperson confirmed the deployment of additional law enforcement personnel to safeguard councillors.
“Some of our councillors are currently in safe houses due to what we have seen happen,” the municipal spokesperson stated, emphasizing that specific operational details are being withheld to ensure the integrity of their security. The municipality is also collaborating directly with provincial police and the Hawks to conduct thorough, individualized risk assessments for vulnerable personnel.
The provincial serious violent crimes detective unit leading the investigation into Tsengwa’s murder has received additional resources. Detectives are actively working to determine if the recent homicides are interconnected.
The case has also brought past local political tensions into focus. Mandla Tyololo had previously been arrested in 2018 in connection with the murder of then Ward 8 Councillor Victor Molosi, though he was ultimately acquitted of all charges.
Authorities continue to appeal to the public for any information that could lead to the apprehension of the suspects, as specialized task teams intensify their investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice.
