Cop car chase ends without arrests after Nyobo slaying
Investigations into the murder of Tornado FC owner Siphiwo “Mawawa” Nyobo took a dip when police admitted a video of them arresting “suspects” in a grey VW Polo came to naught.
The video, which police said went viral, showed flying squad members in a high speed chase on Saturday, ending in the car’s occupants being searched.
However, East London police spokesperson Captain Hazel Mqala said the police found no evidence linking the men or their car to the public slaying of Nyobo.
Mqala said the car was stopped by the police near Empilweni hospital in Duncan Village following a tip-off from a member of the public.
“We can confirm that it later appeared that the people who were searched are not suspects in the murder case.
“We stopped the car shortly after the shooting.
“We are continuing with the investigation and no one has been arrested so far.”
Nyobo died in a hail of bullets outside the North End Stadium on Saturday, after watching his team defeat Birmingham City FC 4-1.
Three gunmen on foot opened fire at him and his female driver.
Nyobo, who was also a traditional healer, is a former taxi boss.
Uncedo Taxi Association chair Gabs Mtshala believed the killing was not taxi-related and said Nyobo left the industry more than a decade ago.
“I can tell you 100% that the killing had nothing to do with the taxi industry.
“All we are saying is the assassination is similar to the way taxi killings are carried out.”
Safa Buffalo City region president and NEC member Prince Sibam said Mawawa’s death was a big loss to the football industry.
“I spoke to him regularly and he was a very respectful guy. He will be sorely missed.
“In terms of our contribution as the association, we will wait for his family for direction.”
He was very passionate about football and Safa wanted to contribute towards Nyobo’s legacy, he said.
I can tell you 100% the killing had nothing to do with the taxi industry