Mixed Reactions Following Yanga “Bara” Nyalara’s Death
Residents of Site C in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, are grappling with mixed emotions following the death of Yanga “Bara” Nyalara, an alleged protection fee kingpin.
Nyalara was reportedly killed in a shootout with police in Butterworth, Eastern Cape, on Thursday, 20 February 2025. A circulating image on social media depicts a severely wounded man inside a Toyota Fortuner, believed to be Nyalara.
Acquitted of Multiple Murders
Nyalara was recently released from prison in November 2024 after being acquitted of 12 murder charges. His acquittal followed a series of unsettling events, where some state witnesses were mysteriously killed while others declined to testify due to fear for their safety.
His sudden death has left many Site C residents distressed, as they credit him with reducing crime in their area.
Community Divided Over His Legacy
Many residents remember Nyalara as a controversial figure who, despite his alleged criminal ties, played a role in maintaining order in the community.
A resident, speaking anonymously, expressed sorrow over his death.
“Before his arrest, he controlled our area and opened several car washes, employing amaphara (unemployed youth) who used to terrorize us. Robberies decreased under his watch. Even after his release last November, our community remained peaceful. Many are saddened by his killing. I was among those who protested at the police station, demanding that the authorities leave him alone,” the resident said.
A Feared Yet Respected Figure
Another resident from Cofimvaba recounted an encounter with Nyalara on 18 February.
“The street was completely cleared, with only him and his heavily armed bodyguards walking. People feared him because such a presence was unheard of in our area,” she said.
Nyalara, also a taxi owner, was reportedly attending a meeting with other taxi operators at a community hall when he was shot.
A Site C community leader acknowledged his controversial role.
“We do not support crime, but his presence brought stability. When he was in prison, even children were shot inside a barbershop. That would never have happened if he had been around. As residents, we welcome anything that ensures our safety,” the leader stated.
Police Confirm Fatal Shootout
Eastern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa, confirmed that six armed suspects were killed in a shootout with officers on the N2 near Ndabakazi, Butterworth.
“The incident occurred on 20 February 2025, at approximately 2 PM. National Intervention Unit members pursued two vehicles suspected of carrying armed individuals from Cofimvaba,” Mawisa reported.
She explained that officers attempted to stop the vehicles, but the suspects sped off, prompting a high-speed chase. The suspects opened fire on police, who retaliated, leading to six fatalities. Several firearms were recovered from the vehicles.
The following day, another body was discovered near a riverbank in the vicinity.
Investigation Underway
The case has been handed over to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) for further scrutiny.
Ipid spokesperson Phaladi Shuping confirmed their involvement.
“We are investigating a case of ‘Death as a Result of Police Action’ following the shootout between police and an alleged armed gang. Our team combed the crime scene from the afternoon of 20 February until the early hours of 21 February. The investigation is ongoing,” Shuping stated.
Nyalara’s death marks the end of a polarizing figure whose influence, for better or worse, shaped the lives of many in Site C.