Wynberg court ‘mastermind and shooter' face premeditated murder charges
Shireen Matthews, 35, stood in the dock with alleged shooter Abubaker Adams, 24.
The court heard they face charges in terms of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act in which the state alleges they:
aided and abetted criminal gang activities in association with the Junky Funky Kidz (JFK) gang;
are implicated in the premeditated murder of former taxi owner Dingalomoya Chintso; and
unlawfully possessed firearms and ammunition.
Matthews faces additional charges of:
inciting, instigating, encouraging or procuring another person to commit, bring about, perform or participate in a pattern of criminal gang activity;
the unlawful supplying of firearms; and
unlawful supplying of ammunition.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles

IOL News
19-07-2025
- IOL News
NPA seizes R600,000 Fortuner used in blue-light crime near Vryburg
The Asset Forfeiture Unit of the National Prosecuting Authority in the North West Division has obtained a preservation order from the North West High Court Image: Pexels The Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the North West Division has secured a preservation order from the North West High Court regarding a silver Toyota Fortuner valued at approximately R600,000. This order pertains to the vehicle, which was deemed an instrumentality in the commission of an offence as outlined in Schedule 1 of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA), 121 of 1998. The case stems from an incident on April 27, 2025, when law enforcement officials apprehended a suspect along the N18 near Vryburg for unlawfully employing blue identification lights on the vehicle. These lights are reserved exclusively for authorised emergency and law enforcement personnel, and their improper use is strictly prohibited under Regulations 176 and 185 of the National Road Traffic Regulations, 2000. According to South African law, the use of blue lights is limited to specific individuals, including members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), municipal police officers, provincial and municipal traffic officers, and the Military Police of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). The apprehended suspect was not only charged with road traffic violations but also found to be in contravention of the Immigration Act, 2002. He was subsequently convicted for being in South Africa without valid documentation and has been deported as part of immigration enforcement measures. The NPA has hailed the court's decision as a resounding endorsement of legal principles and a decisive move to combat the misuse of state-like authority by individuals impersonating law enforcement personnel. In their view, this ruling is a clarion reminder that actions which jeopardise public safety and erode trust in legitimate law enforcement will be met with serious repercussions. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Dr Rachel Makhari, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, expressed commendation for the AFU, recognising their swift action in securing this preservation order. 'This outcome reaffirms our commitment to tackling the growing issue of so-called 'blue light bullies' who intimidate innocent road users and undermine public safety," she stated. "These individuals often act with impunity, posing a serious threat not only to the physical safety of citizens but also to the credibility of law enforcement agencies.' Dr Makhari further emphasised that the NPA, through its Asset Forfeiture Unit, will relentlessly pursue decisive actions against this form of organised criminality. This includes seizing vehicles unlawfully utilised in criminal activities and seeking suitable legal remedies. 'We remain steadfast in our duty to uphold the law and protect our communities from those who seek to exploit authority for criminal gain,' she added. IOL

IOL News
19-07-2025
- IOL News
Mitchells Plain community rallies against gang violence and police inaction
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) marched with PAGAD G-FORCE against gangsterism in Eastridge, Mitchells Plain. Image: Supplied/ EFF Community members, political activists, and anti-crime groups gathered in Eastridge, Mitchells Plain on Friday in a demonstration aimed at confronting drug and gang activity in the area. The protest, led by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and People Against Gangsterism and Drugs (Pagad G-Force), lasted several hours and was marked by tense confrontations between demonstrators, gang members, and law enforcement. According to EFF Western Cape representatives, the protest was organised in response to calls from the Eastridge community concerned about the persistent presence of drug dens and gang violence. The party extended invitations to various faith-based and political organisations, but only Pagad G-Force joined the demonstration. Protesters moved through several locations identified by residents as suspected drug hotspots. During the operation, gang members allegedly confronted the demonstrators. In one instance, a South African Police Service (SAPS) certificate was reportedly found inside a raided property and was confiscated by police officers. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading The EFF expressed disappointment with the conduct of SAPS officers who were present during the demonstration, alleging that police officials refused to arrest self-identified gang members despite on-site confrontations. The EFF claimed that some officers insisted it was not illegal to be a gang member, despite the provisions of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA). The Act, under Section 11, criminalises participation in or benefiting from the activities of a criminal gang and provides criteria for identifying gang membership. Protesters say these provisions were ignored, even after some gang-affiliated individuals openly identified themselves to police officers and demonstrators. Western Cape police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi confirmed that Public Order Policing officers were present at the scene to monitor the situation. 'This office can confirm that police members of Public Order Policing were present on Friday 18 July in Eastridge, Mitchells Plain. Confrontation erupted when gang members clashed with protesters. The police members intervened and took action to disperse the crowds,' he said. Swartbooi further said no cases were registered and no suspects were arrested. The protestors also raised concerns about the safety of residents who fear retaliation from gangs if seen participating in anti-gang activity. The EFF said they would continue to conduct similar community-led initiatives across the province, calling for more direct action from police and government. They criticised both national and provincial authorities for not taking meaningful steps to address the root causes of gang violence on the Cape Flats. 'The prevalence of crime and gangsterism in Mitchells Plain is well documented, with parts of the Cape Flats consistently ranking among the country's highest in terms of murder rates. Despite this, residents say they have not seen any tangible improvement in law enforcement or safety on the ground,' said the EFF. The groups maintain that further demonstrations will be organised as part of an ongoing campaign to create safer environments, especially for children and vulnerable residents affected by gang-related crime.


The Citizen
17-07-2025
- The Citizen
Bail denied in Wynberg Court murder case, alleged mastermind admits being at scene
Bail was denied for two of the accused on Friday, and the murder case was postponed to September. (L-R) Shireen Matthews, Brian Booysen, Wanay Farao and Vuyisani Sergio Zengethwa appear at Wynberg Magistrate's Court in Cape Town on 9 May 2025. Picture: Gallo Images/Misha Jordaan Two women, including the alleged mastermind, linked to the fatal shooting at the Wynberg Magistrate's Court in Cape Town, Western Cape, will remain behind bars after being denied bail. Five accused – Shireen Matthews, Abubaker Adams, Wanay Farao, Brian Booysen, and Vuyisani Zengethwa – appeared in court on Thursday for the outcome of two bail applications. The suspects were arrested in connection with the murder of taxi operator Dingalomoya Chintso, who was shot and killed inside the courthouse on 8 April. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the incident was a revenge killing. Bail judgment in Wynberg court murder case During Thursday's proceedings, the magistrate handed down judgment on the bail applications of Matthews and Farao. The court heard that Matthews discovered she had been linked to the case after her e-hailing service accounts were blocked two days following the incident. The state alleged that she used an e-hailing service on the day of the shooting. In her affidavit, Matthews stated she is self-employed, selling clothing and earning R5 000 a month to support her child and mother. ALSO READ: Shootings plague Cape Town after another five people gunned down She also disclosed a medical condition that she claimed has worsened since her arrest. 'She is currently in great pain and requires an operation to alleviate the discomfort,' the magistrate said. Matthews argued that she does not have a valid passport, as it expired in 2011. She also told the court that her incarceration at Pollsmoor Prison has placed her under severe emotional distress. 'She further averred that she is likely to suffer prejudice if she is not released on bail, as it will cause stress to her and her family,' the presiding officer remarked. The alleged mastermind added that she risks losing her business and that the investigation might take an extended period. Shireen Matthews appears at Wynberg Magistrate's Court in Cape Town on 9 May 2025. Picture: Gallo Images/Misha Jordaan Matthews admitted to having two previous convictions for theft. She denied involvement in the shooting but confirmed her presence at the court on the day of the fatal shooting. 'She attached a copy of the bail receipt which is attached to her affidavit. According to her, this bail receipt is proof that she was at court. 'This bail receipt is stamped, as a friend's case was withdrawn on that day, because while waiting to have the bail receipt endorsed so that the money could be paid out, she heard the shots and ran out. '[Matthews said] a person who she assumed to be a police officer ran towards her with a gun and told her to get down. She submits that she has no knowledge of the murder.' Flight risk Farao, in her affidavit, admitted being in a relationship with Booysen and said she moved in with him seven months ago. She told the court that she financially supports her mother, who suffers from schizophrenia. The 22-year-old said she earns R8 000 per month through modelling as well as dancing and suffers from chronic asthma, which she claimed was worsened by being held in an overcrowded cell. She conceded to being in the same e-hailing vehicle that dropped off Matthews at the court but denied involvement in any premeditated killing. READ MORE: Six extortion suspects killed in shootout with police in Mthatha However, the magistrate found that both women posed a flight risk as Farao evaded the police. The court also highlighted that Matthews and Farao had knowledge of the state's witnesses. 'They both know where the state witnesses reside.' The magistrate concluded that neither applicant presented exceptional circumstances justifying their release on bail. 'As a result, the bail applications of both first and second applicant are denied.' The case was postponed to 19 September for further investigation. Wanay Farao appears at Wynberg Magistrate's Court in Cape Town on 9 May 2025. Picture: Gallo Images/Misha Jordaan Wynberg court The authorities allege Matthews orchestrated the murder by recruiting members of the Junky Funky Kids (JFK) gang. Adams and Zengethwa are suspected to be the shooters. It is also alleged that Farao smuggled the firearm into the courthouse, while Booysen was assigned to dispose of the weapon afterward. NPA Western Cape spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila did not rule out further arrests. Previous reports indicated that ongoing tensions between local taxi operators and the JFK gang in Vrygrond. The conflict escalated when JFK gang leader Ashley 'Essie' Phillips was shot and killed on 30 January. NOW READ: Police probe triple murder and attempted double murder in Gugulethu