The Director of Public Prosecution has taken a decision to charge the Deputy Mayor of Bitou Municipality, Nokuzola Kolwapi regarding an incident where she was seen discharging an alleged firearm in public #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/4qytpgdkwi
— Sphiwe Hobasi (@MrCow_man) April 2, 2026
a shocking incident that has stunned the Bitou community, Deputy Mayor Nokuzola Kolwapi is set to be charged by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) following video footage of her discharging a firearm in public. The event, captured on social media last week in Plettenberg Bay, shows Kolwapi firing shots into the air amid a heated confrontation, raising serious concerns about public safety and official conduct.
Western Cape police confirmed the arrest of Kolwapi on charges including discharging a firearm in a public place, in contravention of the Firearms Control Act. The DPP’s office announced on Wednesday that formal charges will proceed, with a court appearance scheduled for next week at the Knysna Magistrate’s Court. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with bystanders scattering in fear as bullets whizzed overhead. “We elect leaders to protect us, not endanger lives,” said local resident Thandi Mthembu, voicing the sentiment echoing across Bitou Municipality.
Kolwapi, a prominent ANC figure in the Bitou council, has remained silent since the incident. Municipal spokesperson Lwazi Ngcobo stated that she has been suspended pending the outcome of internal investigations. This comes at a time when South Africa’s leaders face mounting scrutiny over ethical lapses, from corruption scandals to reckless behavior.
As Christians, we are reminded in Proverbs 29:2 that “When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.” Incidents like this erode trust in governance and highlight the need for leaders who embody integrity and self-control. Bitou residents deserve accountability—let this be a turning point toward safer, more responsible public service.
The case underscores broader issues of firearm misuse in South Africa, where over 10,000 illegal discharges are reported annually. Community leaders urge calm as the legal process unfolds, praying for justice and healing