Murder accused in Khayelitsha barbershop killing gunned down

One of the accused in the 2024 Khayelitsha barbershop killing, Athule Mtsha, has been fatally shot, shortly after appearing in court.

Mtsha, who had been out on bail since last year, was killed alongside another man on 26 May in what police are treating as a double murder.

“Harare police responded to a complaint of a shooting on Monday, 26 May 2025, at about 13:15, in Ntlanzane Road, Nkanini and upon arrival on the scene they found two unknown males with gunshot wounds to their bodies,” confirmed Western Cape police spokesperson Wesley Twigg.

Twigg said both victims were declared deceased on the scene. The motive for the shooting remains unknown, and no arrests have been made for this murder.

According to reports, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila, confirmed Mtsha, noting that he had appeared in the Khayelitsha Regional Court moments before his death.

Mtsha and co-accused Sithisa Masiko were arrested after the 8 June 2024 shooting. Gunmen stormed a barbershop in Site C and opened fire, killing three children aged four, ten and twelve, and a 30-year-old man.

Masiko is now the sole accused in the case, facing multiple murder and attempted murder charges. He is also currently out on bail.

Commenting on the shooting, Action Society spokesperson Kaylynn Palm said the group will continue its mission to get justice for the barbershop murder victims and their families.

“We do not welcome any loss of life. But we must be honest this individual was linked to the Barbershop massacre… We remain deeply committed to fighting for justice… and making sure those responsible are held accountable.”