A Senior Executive Director in Newcastle and his two bodyguards were shot on Monday morning, 5 January 2026, prompting an active investigation by the Newcastle South African Police Service.
According to the Newcastle Municipality’s Communications Unit, preliminary reports confirm that the Senior Executive Director was attacked by unknown suspects shortly after departing from his residence.
“The attack involved the discharge of firearms. The Senior Executive Director and his two assigned bodyguards sustained injuries and were transported to a medical facility, where they are currently receiving treatment,” the Communications Unit stated.
Moreover, the municipality emphasised that the matter is now under investigation by SAPS and that it will not tolerate speculation, conjecture, or the politicisation of the attack while investigations are ongoing.
Newcastle’s Mayor, Councillor Dube, described the shooting as “a brazen and deeply disturbing criminal act that strikes not only at an individual, but at the integrity and stability of local government.” He added that the Municipality remains fully operational, governance structures are intact, and service delivery will continue without disruption.
In addition, Councillor Dube noted that the municipality is providing institutional support to the affected official and urged members of the public, media, and social media users to allow the family and colleagues the space, dignity, and privacy they require during this period.
Furthermore, Municipal Manager Zamani Mcineka also reiterated confidence in law enforcement, stating, “We have full confidence in law enforcement agencies to investigate this matter thoroughly and apprehend the perpetrators, and ensure they face the full might of the law.”
In addition, Newcastle’s leadership issued a firm warning against the circulation of unverified information, speculation, or the sharing of sensitive images or footage related to the incident. “Such actions are irresponsible, undermine ongoing investigations, and may have legal consequences. The Municipality will continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement authorities and will communicate further developments strictly through official platforms as verified information becomes available,” the Communications Unit said.
The Municipality concluded by reaffirming its commitment to institutional stability, the rule of law, and the uninterrupted delivery of services to the people of Newcastle.
Meanwhile, attention will remain on how the investigation unfolds, with law enforcement tasked with apprehending the perpetrators. Ultimately, the resolution of this case will serve as a measure of the Municipality’s ability to manage critical incidents.
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One Response
What is the municipality doing about this attacks on their officials, why is there no state of emergency around these killings. Or they know who is targeting their officials.?