Mpumalanga police launch manhunt for ‘Big Joe’ Nyalungu’s killers
Joseph “Big Joe” Nyalungu, a suspected rhino poaching figure, was shot dead in Mkhuhlu following a previous attempt on his life at the same location on May 8.
Two men allegedly jumped out of a white Toyota bakkie, walked into the business premises of Joseph “Big Joe” Nyalungu (62) in Mkhuhlu near Hazyview, and shot him dead earlier today, May 16.
Ironically, Nyalungu was sitting with friends in the same chair he had been seated in when he was shot on May 8. He survived that attack after being rushed to Matikwana Hospital.
SAPS detectives were still gathering details from the scene a short while ago.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo said today’s modus operandi mirrored that of the previous shooting.
“The victim was sitting on a chair in the yard when a white Toyota bakkie stopped next to the business premises’ gate. Two men jumped out and walked into the yard. They fired several shots at the victim,” said Masondo.
ALSO READ: No arrests yet after shooting of ‘Big Joe’ Nyalungu
“Nyalungu tried to run away but eventually collapsed in the yard,” he added.
According to Masondo, Nyalungu was hit multiple times in the upper body. The suspects then returned to their vehicle and sped off.
“No arrests have been made yet, but we have launched a manhunt for the suspects. We have collected a number of spent cartridges from the scene, which will form part of our investigations,” he said.
Masondo said anyone with information should contact the nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
Shortly after his discharge from hospital on May 9, Nyalungu spoke exclusively to Lowveld Media Senior Journalist Riot Hlatshwayo.
He said: “I know the person who tried to kill me. I also know the one who sent him, and I will get them. When I do, I will personally hand them over to the police. I am a former cop, but not anymore and I do not have the same limitations officers currently in the system do.”
He was facing several rhino poaching-related charges in Mpumalanga and Limpopo, some dating back more than a decade and a half.
ALSO READ: Suspected poaching boss ‘Big Joe’ Nyalungu killed in Mkhuhlu
Nyalungu’s latest arrest took place in October 2024 at the same premises, after police allegedly found explosives and ammunition in the yard during a search warrant operation.
He was released on R20 000 bail by the Mkhuhlu Magistrate’s Court, and the matter was still ongoing at the time of his death.
Mkhuhlu is often referred to as the ‘land of blood’ following more than 60 gun-related murders recorded in the area over the past three years.
