People who attended the meeting where activist Loyiso Nkohla was gunned down said gunmen targeted him. The woman who cannot be named for safety reasons said the killers went straight to Nkohla and she believes other injured people were caught up in crossfire. Loyiso was shot at a meeting at an abandoned police station near Philippi train station on Monday 17 April 2023.
“Those who were shot were just caught up in a crossfire but the killers wanted Nkohla dead. Other people were shot because they were next to him,” said the woman. She said even when Nkohla was on the ground while people ran for their lives, the gunmen went and shot him at close range to ensure he is dead.
“We were supposed to start the meeting at 10:00 but there were some delays so we started at 10:30. We started with an opening prayer but the moment the person who was praying said ‘amen’ shots were fired. Four men just arrived and fired shots at us but they were targeted at Loyiso who was sitting in front with other leaders,” said the source.
Another leader who was shot is Thembinkosi Papu, the former ANC councilor for ward 80. The source said Papu had to beg for his life while he was on the ground. “They shot him on the legs and on his waist. They didn’t want him dead, they were clearly after Loyiso,” she added.
Several people are still in shock after Loyiso’s untimely death. The deceased, a firebrand activist was well-known for his activism especially in informal settlements.
Police spokesman Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi confirmed the killing of Nkohla. He said Nyanga police are investigating cases of murder and attempted murder. He added that a man and two women were also hospitalised after they were injured.
“Anyone with information that can assist with the investigation is kindly requested to call Crime Stop on 08600 10111,” he added.
