Alleged rhino poaching kingpin Joseph “Big Joe” Nyalungu was shot dead on May 16 during a targeted attack at his business premises in Mkhuhlu, Mpumalanga. The 62-year-old man was killed just over a week after surviving a separate shooting at the exact same location on May 8.
Details of the Fatal Ambush
The shooting occurred at approximately 2:30 pm on Saturday. According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo, preliminary information indicates that two suspects arrived at the scene in a white bakkie.
The suspects allegedly exited the vehicle and approached Nyalungu while he was seated with other individuals at his business. Although the victim attempted to flee, the suspects followed him and fired multiple shots before escaping at high speed in the same vehicle.
Emergency medical personnel declared Nyalungu dead at the scene. Police have since launched a manhunt for the suspects and opened a murder case, though the motive for the killing remains unknown at this stage.
A Pattern of Violence and Legal Battles
This fatal incident follows a violent encounter on May 8, where Nyalungu was shot and injured at the same spot. Following that attack, he was rushed to Matikwana Hospital and discharged on May 9.
Nyalungu had been a recurring figure in legal proceedings related to rhino poaching for many years. He faced several charges in both Limpopo and Mpumalanga, with some legal matters dating back more than 15 years.
His most recent legal trouble began in October 2024 during a search warrant operation at his premises, where police allegedly discovered ammunition and explosives in the yard. That specific legal matter was still ongoing at the time of his death.
Potential Next Steps
Authorities may focus their investigation on the link between Nyalungu’s long-standing poaching charges and the targeted nature of the attacks. Police could potentially use the description of the white bakkie to track the suspects’ movements.
The ongoing murder investigation is likely to examine whether the previous shooting on May 8 was a precursor to the fatal ambush. Further developments may depend on information provided by the public via the MySAPS App or the Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Joseph “Big Joe” Nyalungu killed?
He was shot dead on May 16 at approximately 2:30 pm.
What legal charges was Nyalungu facing?
He faced several rhino poaching-related charges in Mpumalanga and Limpopo, some exceeding 15 years in age, as well as charges related to the possession of explosives and ammunition.
Where did the attacks take place?
Both the fatal shooting on May 16 and the previous shooting on May 8 occurred at Nyalungu’s business premises in Mkhuhlu, Mpumalanga.
How should law enforcement balance the investigation of organized crime with the need to prevent targeted vigilante violence?
