Former Stellenbosch mayor Nyaniso Jindela executed in shocking shooting

Mayor

Cape Town – Former mayor of Stellenbosch, Nyaniso Jindela, was shot and killed on Monday evening, June 9, 2025, in Vineyard Street, Kayamandi.

According to reports, the 59-year-old was found with a gunshot wound to his throat and was declared dead at the scene.

Western Cape police are investigating the murder, with no arrests made yet, and the motive is still under investigation.

“Stellenbosch police registered a murder case for investigation following a shooting incident on Monday evening, 9 June 2025, at about 20:00, in Vineyard Street, Kayamandi, in which a 59-year-old man was shot and fatally wounded,” The Citizen quoted Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg as saying.

“Police members attended to the crime scene, where they found the victim with a gunshot wound to his throat. The victim was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel. The motive for the attack forms part of the police investigation. The suspects are yet to be arrested,” Twigg said.

The Stellenbosch Municipality expressed shock and extended condolences, noting Jindela’s distinguished service as a councillor and deputy mayor.

“Mr Jindela was a former councillor who served the community with distinction, including in the role of deputy mayor,” it said, according to Times Live.

“The incident is under investigation by the SA Police Service and the municipality will fully support police by providing any information they may require. We extend our deepest condolences to Mr Jindela’s family and loved ones during this horrific time.”

In 2021, Jindela and four others, including his wife, were arrested in connection with the 2019 murder of Cameron Mcako, a former deputy mayor, in a suspected politically motivated killing.

Quick Recap :

Who was Nyaniso Jindela and what happened to him?

Nyaniso Jindela was the former mayor and deputy mayor of Stellenbosch, known for his service as a local councillor. On the evening of Monday, June 9, 2025, he was shot and killed in Vineyard Street, Kayamandi.

Where was Nyaniso Jindela killed?

The fatal shooting occurred at approximately 20:00 on Vineyard Street in Kayamandi, a township located within the Stellenbosch Municipality, Western Cape.

What were the circumstances of the murder?

According to reports, Jindela was found with a gunshot wound to his throat and was declared dead at the scene by emergency personnel. No further injuries or suspects were reported at the scene.

What have police said about the case so far?

Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that:

“Stellenbosch police registered a murder case… The motive for the attack forms part of the police investigation. The suspects are yet to be arrested.”

Police investigations are ongoing, with no arrests and no confirmed motive at this stage.

How did the Stellenbosch Municipality respond?

The municipality expressed shock and sorrow following the murder and paid tribute to Jindela’s public service, stating:

“Mr Jindela was a former councillor who served the community with distinction, including in the role of deputy mayor.”

They also pledged to fully support the South African Police Service (SAPS) in their investigation.

Was Jindela previously linked to another political murder?

Yes. In 2021, Jindela and four others, including his wife, were arrested in connection with the 2019 murder of Cameron Mcako, another former deputy mayor. The killing was believed to be politically motivated, although full details remain sealed.

What is the motive behind the shooting of Nyaniso Jindela?

At this time, the motive remains unclear, and police have not confirmed whether the shooting was personal, criminal, or political in nature. Given Jindela’s history and past arrest, speculation exists around possible political tensions or retaliation, but no official statements support this yet.

What happens next in the investigation?

The SAPS is continuing the investigation, with no suspects named or arrested. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.

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Compiled by Betha Madhomu

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