A murder investigation has been launched following a fatal shooting in Vineyard Street, Kayamandi, on Monday evening, 9 June. The incident occurred around 20:00, when 59-year-old Nyaniso Jindela, a former Stellenbosch Councillor, was shot and fatally wounded.

Police responded to the scene and found Jindela with a gunshot wound to the throat. Emergency medical personnel declared him dead at the scene.

The motive behind the attack is currently unknown and forms part of an ongoing investigation. No arrests have been made at this stage.

Jindela was a respected former Councillor and had also served as the Deputy Mayor of Stellenbosch. In a statement released on Monday night, the Stellenbosch Municipality expressed deep shock and sadness at the news of his death.

“It is with great shock and sadness that the Municipality has learned of a shooting incident in Kayamandi this evening, in which Mr. Nyaniso Jindela was fatally shot,” the statement read.

“Mr. Jindela served the community with distinction, including in the role of Deputy Mayor. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this horrific time.”

The Municipality confirmed it will support the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the investigation and urged anyone with relevant information to come forward.

Members of the public can report any tips anonymously by contacting Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or using the MySAPS mobile application.

The GOOD Party has reacted to the murder, saying it represents an escalation of violence that has left residents living in fear.

On 4 May, DA councillor in Stellenbosch, Xolile Kalipa, was also gunned down in Kayamandi.

Meanwhile, Jindela was a suspect in an ongoing investigation into the 2022 murder of another former Deputy Mayor of Stellenbosch, Cameron Mcako.

The GOOD Party’s Robin Hendrikse, who is a Stellenbosch Municipality Councillor, expressed his concern:

“While the legal process must take its course and no individual should be presumed guilty outside of due process, his killing; under such circumstances, raises urgent questions about the state of law enforcement, witness protection, and community safety.”