Old case resurfaces - Vusumzi Gungu appears in court

Breaking News Update

KNYSNA NEWS - A multifaceted businessman whose name has surfaced in several previous murder cases, the 46-year-old Vusumzi Gungu, appeared in the Knysna Magistrate’s Court on Friday 18 September, in connection with an alleged assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, kidnapping and theft of a motor vehicle dating back more than two years.

The matter resurfaced in September following the State’s investigations into Gungu and his co-accused, Thobelani Lakhe (39), in connection with the murder of former Knysna mayor and Ward 8 councillor Aubrey Tsengwa.

However, Friday’s case was entirely separate from the Tsengwa murder proceedings. Gungu appeared alone in the new matter, as Lakhe is not an accused in this case.

Gungu, represented by Knysna attorney Daan Dercksen, appeared in Court A on charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, kidnapping and theft of a motor vehicle.

According to the charge sheet, the alleged incident occurred in May 2024. Gungu was arrested and charged in connection with the matter on 16 September 2026, about two years and four months after the incident.

Matter postponed
The matter was called shortly before 10:00 on Friday and postponed to 26 October. The prosecutor informed the court that the matter remains under investigation, as further investigation is outstanding, particularly regarding the theft of the motor vehicle.

When the court enquired whether the next appearance would be for purposes of a bail application, Dercksen indicated that, should the defence intend to proceed with a bail application on that date, the State would be informed beforehand and in good time.

Meanwhile, Gungu and Lakhe remain before court in the other matter, which includes charges of conspiracy to commit murder, murder and three counts of attempted murder. Read this week’s edition of the Knysna-Plett Herald as the publication reveals Gungu’s intention to plead in both cases.

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