After surviving a shooting on May 8, alleged rhino poaching kingpin Joseph “Big Joe” Nyalungu was shot dead a week later when gunmen stormed his business premises in Mkhuhlu, Mpumalanga.
Two men allegedly jumped out of a white bakkie, entered the business premises of Joseph “Big Joe” Nyalungu, 62, in Mkhuhlu and shot him dead on May 16.
According to reports, Nyalungu previously survived another shooting on May 8 after being rushed to Matikwana Hospital.
The alleged Mpumalanga rhino poaching kingpin, Nyalungu has been in the news over the years following arrests linked to rhino poaching.
Mpumalanga police confirmed they have launched a manhunt following the fatal shooting of the 62-year-old man in Mkhuhlu on Saturday.
The shooting occurred at about 2.30pm.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo said, according to preliminary information, two suspects jumped out of a white bakkie and approached the victim while he was seated with other people at his business premises.
“The victim attempted to flee, but the suspects followed and allegedly fired multiple shots at him before fleeing the scene at high speed in the same vehicle.”
He said the victim was declared dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel.
“The deceased was shot and injured at the same spot a week ago.”
He said the motive for the killing was unknown at this stage. However, a murder case had been opened and an investigation was under way.
“Police urge anyone with information that may assist in identifying or apprehending the suspects to contact the nearest police station, call Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or submit information anonymously via the MySAPS App,” he said.
According to reports, Nyalungu was discharged from hospital on May 9 after the earlier shooting.
He was facing several rhino poaching-related charges in Mpumalanga and Limpopo, some dating back more than 15 years.
Nyalungu’s latest arrest reportedly 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 reportedly released on R20,000 bail by the Mkhuhlu Magistrate’s Court, and the matter was still ongoing at the time of his death.
simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za
IOL News
