Sandton, Johannesburg – March 7: A violent shootout erupted at a popular Sandton restaurant, leaving three men dead and five others wounded. Among the dead was notorious mob figure and businessman Sphamandla Mabonga, who attempted to bypass the restaurant’s strict no-firearms policy alongside two armed bodyguards.
According to eyewitness accounts and various reports, Mabonga and his men were denied entry due to their firearms. Despite this, they returned armed, sparking a deadly exchange of gunfire with the restaurant’s private security team.
As chaos unfolded, two patrons, a security officer, and a Community Policing Forum (CPF) member sustained serious injuries. Mabonga, critically wounded in the crossfire, later succumbed to his injuries in hospital. His two bodyguards were killed on the scene. Police reports confirmed the recovery of an AK-47 assault rifle at the location.
Security Guard Praised for Heroic Self-Defence
Firearms Guardian has praised the courage and quick thinking of the private security officer involved in the incident. According to their statement:
“He realised that Mabonga’s mob posed a lethal threat. Without decisive action, the shootout could have turned into a massacre. His composure and precise response saved numerous lives.”
Legal Expert Confirms Lawful Self-Defence
Advocate Henk Nolte, Director at Firearms Guardian, stated:
“This incident is a textbook case of lawful private defence. The officer acted to repel an unlawful and imminent attack. Based on the circumstances, I doubt the State would even pursue prosecution. In fact, I’d be surprised if charges are brought at all.”
Nolte emphasized that South African law allows for self-defence, even on behalf of others, when these six conditions are met:
6 Legal Requirements for Self-Defence in South Africa
- The attack must be unlawful.
- It must have commenced or be imminent.
- It must threaten a legal interest (life/property).
- Defence must be necessary.
- Defensive action must target the attacker.
- Only reasonable force may be used.
“The security officer satisfied every condition,” Nolte said. “His actions were not only legal, but commendable.”
South Africans Must Be Prepared
With civil unrest and violent crime rising, South Africans must be ready to defend themselves—legally. Nolte warns:
“There may come a time when responsible firearm owners have no option but to fight fire with fire. But it must be within the law.”
Firearms Guardian: Legal Protection for Armed Citizens
What if this happened to you? Would you have legal protection if you had to use your firearm in self-defence?
Firearms Guardian provides affordable, expert legal and liability cover to lawfully armed South Africans, including:
- Self-defence incidents
- Accidental discharges
- Hunting accidents
- Charges under the Firearms Control Act
We’re here to protect you when it matters most.
Firearms Guardian (Pty) Ltd (FSP47115) is an authorised Financial Services Provider. Policies underwritten by GENRIC Insurance Company Limited (FSP43638).
