Police in Kwanokuthula, Plettenberg Bay, are continuing their investigation into an alleged incident involving the pointing of a firearm that reportedly involved Bitou Municipality’s Deputy Mayor, Nokuzola Kolwapi. The incident, which is believed to have occurred in December on Sajini Street, came to light after a video circulated on social media.
Kwanokuthula police confirmed that officers visited the premises after becoming aware of the footage and that a case was subsequently opened by detectives. Police say the investigation is ongoing and that no arrests have been made at this stage. Once the investigation is complete, the case docket will be submitted to the National Prosecuting Authority for a decision.
“The investigation is still at an early stage, and the police are not in a position to divulge particulars of the individuals involved at this time,” said police spokesperson Christopher Spies.
Kolwapi, who is also the leader of the Ikhwezi People’s Movement, has denied that a real firearm was involved. She explained that the object seen in the video was a replica used during a cultural ceremony.
“In response to the video circulating on social media, I would like to clarify that there was no firearm present. The item seen in my hand is a replica, a toy gun. It was taken during my son’s ulwaluko, a sacred Xhosa initiation ceremony that marks the transition into manhood,” Kolwapi said.
She added that the incident has been politicised and should be understood within a broader social and cultural context.
“There is no contradiction between celebrating culture and condemning violence. The incident was not a threat; it was a declaration,” she said.
Photo: screenshot
