Former Knysna mayor Aubrey Tsengwa shot dead in Joodsekamp

Knysna ward councillor and former mayor Aubrey Tsengwa was shot dead on Wednesday night.

Tsengwa represented ward 8, covering Concordia and Joodsekamp, and was Knysna's executive mayor from August 2022 until February 2025.

Police spokesman Sergeant Wesley Twigg said officers were called to Ngxalo Street in Joodsekamp at about 9.20 pm and found the 48-year-old with multiple gunshot wounds to the head and upper body.

Twigg said a gunman walked up to the vehicle and opened fire before running off.

"According to preliminary information, the councillor was driving a vehicle with three passengers when they were approached by an unknown man who opened fire on the vehicle before fleeing the scene on foot," Twigg said.

"One of the passengers sustained a gunshot wound to the arm and was transported to hospital for medical treatment."

Twigg said no one had been arrested and the motive was not immediately known.

"The scene was processed by police forensic personnel, while detectives are following up on all available leads," he said.

Knysna mayor Thando Matika also confirmed the news on Thursday morning.

"We mourn the loss of a fellow cadre and revolutionary whose contribution will forever remain part of our collective memory," Thole said.

The party said an official statement would be issued once further details became available.

DA Knysna mayoral candidate Levael Davis called on police to arrest those responsible.

"We call on the police to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure they face the full might of the law," Davis said.

"Whatever our political differences, we shared a commitment to serving our community."