Remanded in Custody as Hunt for More Gunmen Intensifies
CCN Online – Crime Desk
CAPE TOWN:- A 21-year-old man arrested in connection with the horrific mass shooting that claimed nine lives at a Marikana informal settlement shebeen last month, made his first court appearance yesterday.
Nkcubeko Libala) Court appearance following dramatic arrest; case postponed amid ongoing search for accomplices as Western Cape police push forward with their investigation into the deadly extortion-linked attack.
Nkcubeko Libala (21) appeared briefly in the Mitchells Plain Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 23 February 2026, where the matter was postponed to 2 March 2026 for further police inquiries. He remains in custody.
Libala was apprehended in the early hours of Friday, 20 February 2026, during a targeted operation by detectives from the Serious and Violent Crime Unit. Officers raided his residence in Lower Crossroads, Philippi, around 00:40, where they discovered and confiscated four cellphones believed to be linked to the crime.
The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the case, which has shocked the Philippi East community since the night of 17 January 2026. Unknown assailants stormed an illegal liquor outlet in the Marikana informal settlement, opening fire indiscriminately and killing nine people while leaving at least one other seriously injured.
Police believe the massacre was motivated by extortion demands targeting the shebeen operators.
This is the second suspect to face court in the matter. Earlier this year, 19-year-old Bheki Manxiwa appeared in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on charges including nine counts of murder, attempted murder, and robbery with aggravating circumstances. Reports indicate a third suspect, Lonwabo Steven Dyasi (28), remains at large, with an arrest warrant issued.
SAPS spokesperson statements confirm that detectives are actively pursuing additional suspects and gathering evidence, including forensic analysis of the seized cellphones.
Community leaders in Philippi have called for swift justice and greater police presence to curb gang-related violence and extortion in informal settlements.
No plea was entered during Monday’s brief proceedings, and further details on charges against Libala are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
CCN Online will continue to monitor developments in this case.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or the nearest police station.
