Sandton Shooting Claims Three Lives: Businessman Sphamandla Mabonga Killed in Deadly Restaurant Gunfight

The incident occurred when Mabonga, accompanied by his bodyguards, attempted to enter the Solo restaurant in Sandton while armed, despite the venue's no-firearm policy. An argument ensued, which escalated into a lethal gunfight between Mabonga's bodyguards and the venue's security personnel. Two of the bodyguards were declared dead on the scene, and Mabonga, along with two patrons and a security guard, were wounded and taken to hospital. Unfortunately, Mabonga was declared dead on arrival.

According to a police report, the altercation began when Mabonga tried to enter the restaurant by force, leading to a confrontation with the security guard. After a brief discussion with police officers who responded to the complaint, Mabonga handed over his firearm to one of his bodyguards. However, the situation quickly turned violent when Mabonga started shouting and swearing at the security guard, prompting his bodyguards to intervene. The police report describes a chaotic scene with "a lot of gunfire," resulting in multiple injuries and fatalities.

The incident is under investigation by the Gauteng police, with the identities of those involved and the circumstances surrounding the shooting being examined. This is not the first time Mabonga has been alleged to have been involved in a shooting at a Sandton restaurant, having been previously arrested and charged with attempted murder in connection with a shooting at Tempo Luxury Restaurant and Lounge in January last year. The community is left to grapple with the consequences of such violent incidents, highlighting concerns over crime and safety in public places.