Businessman Sphamandla Mabonga, known for his high-profile lifestyle and past legal troubles, was one of three people killed in a deadly shooting at Solo Restaurant in Sandton on Thursday night.
Sphamandla Mabonga does not survive second attempt on his life
According to police, the incident began when a man accompanied by his bodyguards attempted to enter the restaurant while armed, despite its strict no-firearm policy.
A confrontation escalated into a violent shootout, leaving Mabonga and his two bodyguards dead and four others wounded, including two patrons, a security guard, and a Community Policing Forum (CPF) member.
Mabonga’s death follows a previous attempt on his life in January 2024, when he was shot and injured in a separate nightclub altercation. The same man suspected of targeting him last year is believed to have successfully carried out the hit this time.
As investigations continue, concerns have emerged about the speed of the clean-up operation at Solo Restaurant, where workers were seen mopping blood from the floor less than 24 hours after the shooting.
What we know about his checkered history
Mabonga, widely recognised for his past relationship with reality TV star Londie London, had previously made headlines for several altercations and legal troubles.
In January 2024, he was shot in the ribs during an argument at Tempo Nightclub in Sandton.
Later, in March 2024, he was arrested for allegedly firing gunshots at security guards after being denied entry to a Sunninghill nightclub for carrying a weapon.
His legal troubles extended beyond violent altercations.
Mabonga was under investigation for:
- Assaulting a female journalist at Konka, a Soweto nightclub frequented by celebrities.
- Fraudulent car purchases allegedly involving a financial institution scam.
Authorities have confirmed that four firearms, including two AK-47 rifles and two handguns, were recovered from the scene. The Serious and Violent Crimes Unit and Murder and Robbery Division are handling the investigation, with no arrests made so far.
Reality TV personality Londie London, who was once romantically involved with Mabonga, has not publicly commented on his death.
