Update
KNYSNA NEWS - The Greater Knysna is mourning the tragic death of former Knysna mayor and councillor Aubrey Tsengwa (48).
Tsengwa’s fatal shooting is the second reported in Knysna in a week’s time - a local business robbery and car hijacking took place on Friday 14 August, adding to the growing concerns over violent crime in the area.
Provincial unit investigates councillor’s killing
In Tsengwa’s case, the detectives of the provincial Serious and Violent Crime Unit are investigating a murder and three counts of attempted murder following a shooting incident in Joodsekamp, Knysna, on Wednesday evening, 19 August.
According to Sergeant Wesley Twigg, the police responded to a shooting in Ngxalo Street at about 21:20 and found Tsengwa with multiple gunshot wounds to his head and upper body. He was declared dead on the scene.
“According to the preliminary police information, Tsengwa was driving a vehicle with three passengers when they were approached by an unknown man, who allegedly opened fire on the vehicle before fleeing the scene on foot,” said Twigg.
“One of the passengers sustained a gunshot wound to the arm and was transported to hospital for medical treatment. The circumstances surrounding the other attempted murder charges form part of the ongoing police investigation.”
The motive for the shooting has yet to be determined, and no arrests had been made at the time of the police statement. Police forensic personnel processed the crime scene, while detectives are following up on all available leads.
Tsengwa’s death has sent shockwaves through the Greater Knysna community, and tributes and messages of condolences followed the news of his killing.
As the investigation continues, the police have not indicated a motive, and the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation.
Earlier shooting awaits official confirmation
This fatal shooting follows another shooting incident reported in the early hours of Monday morning.
A local business owner, reportedly known as Ysie and associated with Jam Alley, was shot after he and his girlfriend had closed the business in Nekkies and were travelling to their home in Concordia.
The pair were allegedly ambushed and robbed, and the man was shot during the incident. He is reportedly receiving treatment at George Hospital.
This publication is awaiting official confirmation from the police and other relevant authorities regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident, the identity and condition of the victim, and whether a criminal case has been registered.
Claims that the victim may go in for emergency surgery to remove a bullet could also not be independently confirmed at the time of publication.
Armed robbery and hijacking in Nekkies
Meanwhile, the Knysna SAPS confirmed that a hijacking and business robbery case was opened following an incident at a spaza shop on the corner of Uniondale and Sonqayi streets in Nekkies at about 19:50 on 14 August.
Garden Route District police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie said preliminary investigations indicate that three armed men approached the victim and took his Ford Focus after allegedly forcing him into the shop and taking items.
The vehicle was later recovered after it was found abandoned near the scene. No arrests had been made at the time of the police statement.
Pojie appealed to anyone with information to contact the investigating officer on 044 302 6652 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
A community shaken by violence
The recent incidents have heightened concerns among residents over armed robberies, hijackings and shootings in the Greater Knysna.
Tsengwa’s killing also recalls to mind other violent attacks that have shaken the community, including the fatal shooting of former Knysna municipal councillor and ANC chief whip Victor Molosi (47), who was shot and killed outside his home in Concordia, Knysna, on 23 July 2018.
Anyone with information that could assist police in the investigation into Tsengwa’s murder is urged to contact SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or provide information anonymously through the My SAPS app.
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