Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay, Cllr Babalwa Lobishe, has expressed deep sorrow and concern following the confirmation by the South African Police Service regarding the tragic murders of two young men, Sandile Nqoqo and Mazizi Ntshibilili, whose bodies were discovered on 17 April 2026. The Mayor has extended heartfelt condolences to the affected families, particularly to Advocate Ngoqo and his family, while calling for space and dignity as they process this devastating loss.
The City is deeply saddened by this senseless act of violence that has robbed two families of their sons and has shaken the broader community of Nelson Mandela Bay. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, and all those affected during this painful time.
We respectfully request the public and the media to afford the families the necessary privacy and dignity to mourn and deal with this tragedy without undue intrusion. This is a profoundly personal moment for the families, and they must be given the space to grieve.
The Municipality further extends its heartfelt condolences to families in Walmer who have, over the past week, also experienced the devastating loss of their children under tragic circumstances. As a City, we stand in solidarity with these families and share in their grief during this profoundly difficult time.
The Municipality wishes to emphasise that the South African Police Service remains the competent authority to provide verified updates and details regarding the investigation. We urge the public to refrain from speculation and to rely only on official communication from law enforcement agencies.
As a caring City, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality stands ready to offer any support required by the affected families during this difficult period, working in collaboration with relevant stakeholders where appropriate.
We call on anyone with information that may assist the investigation to come forward and cooperate fully with law enforcement authorities to ensure that justice is served.
