A notorious former police officer and suspected rhino poaching kingpin has been gunned down in an execution-style ambush, just days after boasting to a journalist that he would personally hunt down his would-be killers.

Joseph “Big Joe” Nyalungu, 62, was shot and killed yesterday in Mkhuhlu near Hazyview – an area reeling from more than 60 gun-related murders in recent years, referred to by some as ‘the land of blood’, reports Lowvelder.

Shockingly, the fatal attack occurred in the exact spot where he had been shot and injured on May 8.

According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo, the modus operandi of the two shootings was remarkably similar.

Yesterday, two men allegedly jumped out of a white Toyota bakkie, walked into Nyalungu’s business premises near Hazyview, and opened fire. Nyalungu was sitting with friends in the very same chair he had been seated in during the first attack. He had survived that initial incident after being rushed to Matikwana Hospital.

“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. “Nyalungu tried to run away but eventually collapsed in the yard.”

Masondo confirmed that Nyalungu was hit multiple times in the upper body before the suspects returned to their vehicle and sped off. SAPS detectives remained on the scene investigating until late last night.

Police say they have launched a manhunt for the killers and have urged community members with any information to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

‘I know who’s trying to kill me’

Shortly after his discharge from hospital on May 9, Nyalungu spoke exclusively to Lowveld Media journalist Riot Hlatshwayo, delivering an ominous warning to his rivals.

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 have.”

At the time of his death, Nyalungu was facing several rhino poaching-related charges in Mpumalanga and Limpopo, some dating back more than 15 years.

His latest arrest took place in October 2024 at the same Mkhuhlu premises, after police executing a search warrant allegedly discovered explosives and ammunition hidden in the yard. He had been released on R20 000 bail by the local magistrate’s court, and the legal proceedings were still ongoing when he was killed.

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