ANC councillor Lazola Gungxe shot dead after community meeting in Nyanga

Tragedy in Nyanga: ANC councillor killed after meeting

Cape Town was shaken on Tuesday when news broke that ANC councillor Lazola Gungxe had been shot dead outside the Old Crossroads Community Hall in Nyanga. The 48-year-old had just finished engaging with community members when assailants reportedly opened fire in what authorities are treating as a targeted attack.

According to Cape Town police spokesperson Captain F.C Van Wyk, officers responded to the scene around 3pm.

“Upon arrival, the body of the deceased was found near the entrance of the hall. Reports indicate that after a community meeting, two males approached and shot him. The suspects fled in a white Toyota Avanza with no registration numbers. Nothing was taken from the deceased.”

A murder case has been registered at Nyanga police, but the motive behind the attack remains unclear. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward via Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or the MySAPS mobile app, which allows for anonymous tips.

Tragedy in New Crossroads: ANC City of Cape Town councillor Lazola Gungxe has been shot dead in his office, sparking fresh alarm over the safety of local representatives.📍 Photo: Ayanda Ndamane/Independent Media

👉 https://t.co/nCEscbmxbA pic.twitter.com/BZMRKAO2UK

Cape Argus (@TheCapeArgus) February 3, 2026

A committed community leader

Gungxe’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from colleagues and community organisations. SANCO Peninsula Region highlighted his tireless work in strengthening community structures in the Milnerton/Atlantis area.

“He was widely known as a committed community activist who served with humility, discipline, and a strong sense of responsibility to the people,” said SANCO spokesperson Buntu Gwija.

Gwija called for law enforcement to act urgently and urged residents to remain calm and united in the wake of the tragedy.

Sincere condolences to the family, friends, & comrades of my dear comrade & friend, Councillor Lazola Gungxe. You always engaged us robustly with dignity & served in a grounded manner till the very end. This is extremely tragic. Justice must be served. Go well my comrade pic.twitter.com/nZCwBwWNXx

Khalid Sayed MPL (@MKhalidSayed) February 4, 2026

ANC MP Khalid Sayed also expressed sorrow.

“Sincere condolences to the family, friends, and comrades of my dear comrade and friend, Councillor Lazola Gungxe. You always engaged us robustly with dignity and served in a grounded manner till the very end. This is extremely tragic. Justice must be served.”

The Good Party condemned the killing as a blow to public service and community stability, adding:

“We call on SAPS to urgently bring the perpetrators to justice and act decisively against illegal firearms threatening our communities. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues.”

Violence and public service

Gungxe’s death underscores the ongoing reality of violence facing South African communities, particularly those who engage in public service at a local level. His passing has left the Nyanga community traumatised, with political and civic leaders stressing the need for justice and accountability.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on tracking down the assailants and preventing further attacks against councillors and community leaders. Residents and colleagues alike are now calling for unity, safety, and the reinforcement of trust in law enforcement.

“This senseless act is a stark reminder that serving the community can come at a terrible personal risk,” Gwija added.

The Old Crossroads Community Hall, once a space for dialogue and civic engagement, now stands as a solemn reminder of the dangers facing those who dedicate their lives to public service.

{Source: The Citizen}

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