Xolani Khumalo’s Security Team Fired Shots that Killed Nigerian Man, Police Confirm
Gauteng police have identified the private security team working with ActionSA’s Ekurhuleni mayoral candidate, Councillor Xolani Khumalo, as having fired the fatal shots that killed a Nigerian man.
The incident occurred during an anti-drug operation in Windsor East, northern Johannesburg.
Also Read: Nigerian Foreign National Shot And Killed During Xolani Khumalo’s Anti-Drug Operation
Police Open Murder Case
Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said officers responded after violence and unrest broke out in the area following the shooting. Initial investigations indicate that the gunfire came from the production team’s security detail.
According to MDN News, a murder docket has since been opened, with police confirming that the investigation is ongoing. No arrests had been made at the time of reporting.
ActionSA Confirms Khumalo Was Present
ActionSA acknowledged that Khumalo was on site during the operation, describing the initiative as part of its campaign against drug-related crime. The party reiterated its stance against organised criminal networks, while noting that the matter is now under investigation by law enforcement authorities.
The party did not directly address the conduct of the security personnel involved in the shooting.
EFF Condemns Political Involvement in Armed Operations
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) criticised the incident, raising concerns over political figures being associated with operations that involve armed private security and result in fatalities. The party warned that such actions blur the line between law enforcement and political activism.
Past Incidents Resurface
The fatal shooting has reignited debate around Khumalo’s involvement in Sizok’thola-linked anti-drug operations. A previous murder investigation in 2023, connected to the programme, was later provisionally withdrawn, but continues to draw public scrutiny.
City officials also clarified that the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department was not part of the television production’s security detail and only intervened after being called in to restore order.