The incident unfolded on Sunday, 8 February 2026, during the coordinated operation aimed at disrupting alleged drug activity.

ActionSA confirmed Khumalo’s presence and described the deceased as a Nigerian suspect involved in drug trafficking.

Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said preliminary findings showed shots were fired by members of the production team’s security. The team later went to the Linden police station after community members began protesting outside.

Sibeko confirmed that investigations continue and no one has been arrested.

ActionSA Defends Decisive Action Against Crime

ActionSA framed the shooting as part of its broader campaign to restore law and order in Ekurhuleni.

“For too long, drug syndicates have terrorised our communities through violence, intimidation and total disregard for the law,” Khumalo said.
“ActionSA will continue to support every decisive and lawful measure to dismantle this scourge and confront the violent resistance of criminals who have grown comfortable believing they are untouchable. That era must and will end.”

The party linked the operation to its 10-Point Action Plan to Fix Ekurhuleni, which places safety and law enforcement at the centre. Proposals include reforming the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD), creating specialised units against syndicates, using crime-mapping technology, and strengthening Community Policing Forums.

ActionSA described Ekurhuleni as having become a “de facto mafia state” under previous administrations.

Police Probe and Community Response

Police have registered a murder case and are investigating the circumstances of the shooting.

No official confirmation has been given that the deceased was actively involved in drug trafficking.

Community members gathered at the Linden police station after the incident. Some called for Khumalo’s arrest, according to local reports.

ActionSA and the production team have not issued further statements on the protests.