Two More Accused Added To Cases Against The Feared Khayelitsha Gang Boss

The Cape Town Magistrates Court added Wandile Tofile and Manelisi Ngumla, as co-accused to the cases against Yanga Nyalara, initially charged alone with twelve counts of murder, four counts of attempted murder, a count of illegal possession of a firearm and a count of illegal possession of ammunition. This morning Nyalara, also known as “Bara”, and Tofile were charged with 12 counts of murder, four counts of attempted murder, a count of illegal possession of a firearm and a count of illegal possession of ammunition. The incident took place on 15 May 2021, in the Y Section, Site B, Khayelitsha.

The State alleges that the two went on a shooting spree, which left Gavin Futho, Mzingisi Mbilini, Mohamed Hassan, Mandlakayise Simelane, Thabiso Simelane, Asemahle Mayekiso, Epgalenga Bathani, Thembile Lemani, Siphiwe Azora, Ahamed Abulla, Alukar Osmar and Omar Osman dead. Badru Mohamed, Lundi Manyandela, Bulelwa Mlandu and Bonga Maguganzi, survived the shooting resulting in the attempted murder charges against the accused.

Nyalara and Tofile are also charged under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act, as they were prominent members of a gang, that engaged in a range of criminal activities which include extortion of informal businesses around Khayelitsha and committing violent criminal acts, by instilling fear among the owners of the informal businesses to induce them to pay money to the gang. They also eliminated competing gangs, by engaging in extortion in the area.

Nyalara, is also charged with Ngumla for the six murders of Khayalethu Nelani, Athenkosi Bonkolo, Mthokozisi Mhlakaza, Asanda Nofemela, Sivuyile Lubobo and Fundisile Mxhonywa, were fatally shot on 8 May 2022, in Site C, Khayelitsha. Lwandiso Singama survived the shooting, and the accused are charged with his attempted murder. They also face two counts of illegal possession of firearms and illegal possession of ammunition and dealing in drugs.

Senior State Adv. Mervyn Menigo requested a postponement, as there was an extensive investigation that was outstanding and included forensic reports, fingerprint comparison, cellphone analysis, drug analysis and ballistic reports.  Defence Adv. Phindile Moses Vephile did not oppose the State’s request for a postponement, and the case was remanded until 4 October 2022. All the accused have abandoned their rights to bail application for now. 

Issued by:

Eric Ntabazalila

National Prosecuting Authority

Regional Communications Manager

Western Cape

Tel: (021) 487 7308Mobile: 073 062 1222

Email: entabazalila@npa.gov.za