The investigative team from the Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit, based in Bellville, has made a significant breakthrough in the Loyiso Nkohla murder case with the arrest of another suspect.
On Monday, 13 November 2023, the Hawks successfully located and apprehended a 38-year-old individual in Katlehong, Tshwane. The suspect is scheduled to make an appearance in the Pretoria Central Magistrates’ Court on 14 November.
The legal proceedings for this case are anticipated to be transferred to Cape Town, where the first suspect is already facing charges. The initial arrest, involving Zukisa Tshabile (38), took place on 27 October 2023, and Tshabile is currently remanded until 15 February 2024 for further investigation.
The incident leading to Nkohla’s tragic demise occurred on 17 April 2023 at the Philippi railway station in Cape Town, where he was reportedly shot amidst a hail of bullets. Investigators believe that Nkohla was specifically targeted due to his involvement in discussions aimed at clearing Metrorail’s Central Line, where families had established homes.
The State has asserted that Tshabile, along with three others who remain at large, was hired to carry out the fatal shooting of Nkohla. The alleged mastermind behind the orchestrated killing is purportedly the head of a security company. However, it remains unclear whether the recently arrested individual is the security company boss or one of the contracted assailants.
Major-General Mathipa Makgato, the Hawks provincial head, commended the investigative team for their diligent efforts in uncovering crucial leads and bringing the perpetrators closer to facing justice in court.
A Sense of Relief and Confidence
Nkohla’s wife, Nyameka, expressed her feelings of relief and confidence upon learning about the latest arrest. She mentioned that the breakthrough came at a poignant time, coinciding with their son’s first birthday without his father. Nyameka described her late husband as a devoted father who never missed any significant moments in their children’s lives.
Expressing gratitude to the Hawks for their unwavering dedication, Nyameka stated, “I feel relieved and confident that indeed my husband will get justice. The Hawks continue to bring us renewed hope and confidence in the law enforcement agencies of our country, and I wish to thank them for their hard work and dedication.”
Alfred Juta, a supporter of Nkohla, echoed these sentiments, referring to the second arrest as an answered prayer. Juta, visibly emotional, asserted, “Loyiso fought for us in the informal settlements, and every day following his death we have been praying. All those responsible for his death will be brought to book one by one. Loyiso’s spirit is strong, and he is fighting from the grave.”