Western Cape serious violent crime unit detectives have arrested two suspects on charges of conspiracy to commit murder, following the killing of Knysna councillor and former Mayor Aubrey Tsengwa last Wednesday.

The arrested men, aged 39 and 46, were apprehended on Saturday, 24 August. They were charged after being questioned by police. Two vehicles, three firearms and several cell phones were confiscated as part of the investigation. The police say the search for more suspects continues.

“The investigation is expected to reveal the motive behind the shooting incident that left one person killed and three wounded. Knysna police subsequently registered a murder and three attempted murder cases after the shooting incident on Wednesday.”

Tsengwa was gunned down in Ngxalo Street, Joodsekamp, at about 9.20 pm on Wednesday, 19 August.

According to police, Tsengwa and three other people were on their way home when an unknown suspect approached them and opened fire before fleeing the scene.

Tsengwa, who was driving the vehicle, was fatally wounded and declared dead at the scene by medical personnel.

The three other victims were wounded and taken to a medical facility for treatment.

Tsengwa served as Knysna’s executive mayor from August 2022 until February 2025, when he was removed from the position following a successful motion of no confidence.

He later returned to the Knysna Municipal Council after winning the Ward 8 by-election as the ANC candidate in June 2025.

Tributes have since been paid to Tsengwa, with ANC member Phumla Thole describing his death as a tragic passing and conveying condolences to his family, friends, comrades and those who worked closely with him.

DA councillor Jason White also expressed his condolences, saying that although he and Tsengwa had often differed politically, they were able to debate and challenge each other respectfully.

The Knysna PA also extended its condolences, describing Tsengwa as a people’s person with strong communication skills and a strong character.

Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile application anonymously.