MURDER WAS THE CASE

As investigations into the brazen gang hit at Wynberg Magistrates Court continue, the criminal record of the slain man has raised eyebrows.

The shocking shooting on the fourth floor of the building, which houses the Wynberg Regional Court, sent tongues wagging amid initial claims that the victim was a State witness. 

At the time of the incident, an eyewitness reported that a lone gunman wearing a maroon t-shirt and a black beanie approached Dingalomoyo Chintso, 49, and took a firearm out of his sling bag and fired four shots at his head. 

Panic spread as bang mense feared the gunman was still roaming the court corridors as sources revealed that the victim was a person of interest in the murder of slain Junky Funky gang boss Ashley "Essie" Phillips who was shot outside Brackenfell Police Station earlier this year. 

According to a police report seen by the Daily Voice, Chintso had various murder charges brought against him for incidents in the Muizenberg Police Precinct. 

The report shows that the man, whose address is in Philippi, had two pending murder cases against him dating back to January 2023. 

It also shows that he was previously charged with murder in 2013 but the case was later withdrawn and also faced charges of theft of a motor vehicle and being in possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle. These charges dating back to 2019 were also withdrawn. 

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has also refuted claims that he was a State witness. 

Spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila says: "The NPA has just been advised that the deceased who passed away following an alleged shooting inside the Wynberg Magistrates Court building was an accused who appeared at Court D. I can confirm that the accused was charged with murder and illegal possession of a firearm." 

Department of Justice and Constitutional Development ministerial spokesperson, Steve Mahlangu, says the incident had been strongly condemned by Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi who says it undermines the safety and integrity of the justice system. 

Mahlangu says: "The Minister says such incidents have the potential to deter witnesses from assisting the state in prosecuting cases successfully.

"The South African Police Service is currently handling the investigation into how this incident occurred, and all necessary steps are being taken to address the situation.

"The Minister has committed to engaging with the Judiciary to explore mechanisms for better protecting witnesses. 

"One of the options under consideration is the expanded use of technology, such as virtual remote testimony, as a means to enhance witness safety while still ensuring that justice is served. The court was closed after the incident, however we got a report that proceedings will continue today Wednesday."

Meanwhile police confirmed no arrests have been made. 

Spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg says: "Kindly be advised that the matter you are referring to is still under investigation. The investigating officer is following up all leads in a bid to make a breakthrough in the case."