Minister Mchunu praises police for eliminating alleged crime kingpin Yanga Bara Nyalara! Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has commended law enforcement officers in the Eastern Cape for their actions during a deadly shootout that resulted in the death of Yanga ‘Bara’ Nyalara, a feared crime figure, and his bodyguards.
Nyalara, a former teacher-turned-taxi boss, was a notorious extortion kingpin who allegedly terrorized communities. He met his end in a hail of bullets on Thursday along the N2 highway near Ndabakazi, Butterworth.
Deadly Shootout on the N2
National Commissioner Fannie Masemola confirmed that Nyalara was among the seven individuals killed in the confrontation with police.
“Police were pushed off the road on Thursday as they attempted to stop several vehicles. Instead of complying, the suspects opened fire on officers, leading to a shootout,” Masemola explained.
The suspect group had reportedly been involved in another incident earlier that day.
“There was also a report that the same group of cars had pushed a traditional leader off the road,” he added.
Yanga Bara Nyalara
Communities Express Relief Over Nyalara’s Death
Minister Mchunu revealed that law enforcement had received numerous messages from terrified residents who lived in fear of Nyalara and his gang.
“Many people were afraid of him, and now they are relieved that he is gone. This shows the police did an excellent job,” Mchunu said.
He emphasized the brazen nature of criminals who now openly challenge police authority.
“It’s shocking how criminals dare to push police off the road unprovoked. This was a direct threat to law enforcement, and the officers had every right to protect themselves,” he added.
Mchunu stressed that police must not hesitate to use force when necessary.
“We have repeatedly told officers that they must defend themselves immediately when their lives are at risk. We encourage them to act first and use ultimate force to protect not only themselves but also the public, who depend on them for safety.”
Support for Officers After Deadly Confrontation
Following the incident, Mchunu highlighted the need for trauma counseling for the National Intervention Unit (NIU) officers involved in the shootout.
“These officers experienced a life-threatening situation. They were forced off the road and had firearms pointed at them. They had to make split-second decisions to neutralize the threat, which can be psychologically distressing,” he explained.
He also reiterated the government’s stance against criminal groups challenging law enforcement.
“We want to send a strong message: do not dare the police. Criminals should know that officers will respond with the full force of the law when provoked,” he warned.
Mchunu also encouraged community members to come forward with information about other feared individuals causing distress in their neighborhoods.
“We invite the public to inform us if they know of anyone who is terrorizing their community. We are here to protect the people,” he stated.
Death Toll Rises to Seven as Police Recover Weapons
Eastern Cape police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa confirmed that the number of suspects killed increased to seven after another body was found.
“One of the suspect’s vehicles was stuck on the riverbanks, and our SAPS K9 Search and Rescue team was deployed. They later retrieved one more body from the river,” Mawisa stated.
The shootout also led to the recovery of multiple firearms, highlighting the firepower the suspects possessed.
“Police recovered four AK-47 rifles and two pistols from the scene,” Mawisa said, adding that investigations are still ongoing.
A Message to Criminals: The Law Will Strike Back
The deadly confrontation between police and Nyalara’s gang serves as a stark warning to criminals who believe they can challenge law enforcement without consequences.
The Eastern Cape police force, with support from national leadership, has demonstrated its commitment to fighting violent crime. The Minister’s statement makes it clear that officers will not hesitate to use force to protect themselves and maintain law and order.
As investigations continue, authorities remain on high alert, ensuring that no criminal elements attempt to fill the void left by Nyalara’s death.
For now, many residents in affected communities can breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that a major criminal threat has been eliminated.
