Police in Tlokoeng, Eastern Cape, have identified the three men who were fatally shot during an operation by the National Intervention Unit (NIU) on Sunday, 22 February 2026.
According to police report, the deceased are 44-year-old Lentsha Lentsha, 36-year-old Ramahlele Lentsha, and 38-year-old Chumani Majikijela — who has been identified as the son of Eastern Cape police general Nompumelelo Majikijela.
In a report, police said NIU members were officially on duty in Tlokoeng, acting on intelligence regarding their main target, Lentsha Lentsha, also known as “Bidibidi.” He was reportedly wanted in connection with serious crimes including extortion, murder, drug dealing, rape, robbery, and illegal possession of a firearm.
Authorities allege that on the day of the incident, Lentsha was seated in a vehicle with his brother near Highway Motor Spares when they were approached by NIU members. A third man reportedly arrived at the scene driving a white Toyota RunX, carrying a parcel.
Police claim that as officers approached, Lentsha allegedly drew a firearm and opened fire. The third man, later identified as Chumani Majikijela, allegedly also pointed a firearm at officers. Police said NIU members returned fire, and all three men were declared dead at the scene. A firearm was reportedly found next to Majikijela.
Two of the deceased, Lentsha Lentsha and Ramahlele Lentsha, were known in the community as taxi owners and members of a local taxi organisation in Tlokoeng. Their membership was confirmed by the organisation’s chairperson.
Police have confirmed that the matter has been referred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for further investigation, as is standard procedure in cases involving police action resulting in death.
Eastern Cape Police General’s son amongst the dead in an NIU operation in Tlokoeng
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