Businessman and ex-lover of Londie London killed in Sandton shootout! A dramatic shootout outside a popular Sandton restaurant has left businessman Bongani Maocuana, also known as Sphamandla Mabonga, dead. The ex-lover of reality TV star Londie London was gunned down outside Solo Restaurant on the evening of March 6, 2025.
According to reports, the violent altercation resulted in the deaths of three people, including Sphamandla and his two bodyguards, while four others were injured and rushed to the hospital.
What Led to the Deadly Confrontation?
The incident occurred at Solo Restaurant, located at 24 Central in Sandton, an area known for its luxurious nightlife and celebrity presence.
Police reports suggest that Sphamandla arrived at the restaurant carrying a firearm, which led to a confrontation with the restaurant’s security personnel. Solo enforces a strict no-firearm policy, and when security denied him entry, tensions escalated.
Deadly Shootout
Gauteng police spokeswoman Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed that the situation quickly turned violent.
“A case of murder and attempted murder is under investigation following a shooting incident that claimed the lives of three people and left four others injured last night at a restaurant in Sandton.”
During the exchange of gunfire:
- Sphamandla and his two bodyguards were fatally shot at the scene.
- Two patrons, a security guard, and a community policing forum (CPF) member were among the four injured and were rushed to a nearby hospital.
- Sphamandla later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
Sphamandla’s History of Violence and Crime
This was not the first time that Sphamandla had been involved in violent altercations.
2024 Nightclub Shooting at Tempo
- In 2024, he was arrested following a shooting at Tempo nightclub in Sandton.
- He allegedly opened fire on security staff after being denied entry for carrying a firearm.
- Security bouncers returned fire, shooting him eight times.
- He was rushed to Joburg General Hospital, where he survived his injuries.
Other Criminal Allegations
- Sphamandla was under investigation for allegedly assaulting a female journalist at Konka nightclub in Soweto, another celebrity hotspot.
- He was also being probed for suspected fraudulent activity, including the purchase of luxury vehicles through financial fraud.
His Relationship with Londie London
Sphamandla was previously romantically linked to Londie London, a reality TV star known for her role on Real Housewives of Johannesburg.
Their relationship was highly publicized, with the couple frequently sharing their lavish lifestyle on social media.
- In one video, Londie was seen gifting him a Dolce & Gabbana bag while he was dancing and holding a large firearm.
- Their relationship ended after the 2024 Tempo nightclub shooting involving Sphamandla.
Londie has yet to publicly comment on his death.
Solo Restaurant Responds to the Shooting
Following the tragedy, Solo Restaurant management released a statement addressing the incident:
“As management of Solo Restaurant, we confirm that a security breach occurred at our establishment on the evening of March 6. This tragic event resulted in the loss of three lives, while four individuals were injured.
The safety and well-being of our patrons, staff, and the broader community is always our top priority. We maintain a strict no weapons and no violence policy at our restaurant.
We extend our sincerest thoughts and prayers to the innocent parties who were injured during the incident. We wish them a speedy and full recovery.”
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the Sandton shootout, including:
- Reviewing CCTV footage from the restaurant.
- Interviewing witnesses present during the altercation.
- Determining the source of the firearms involved.
- Investigating potential connections between this shooting and Sphamandla’s previous criminal activities.
At this stage, no arrests have been made, but police continue to follow leads as they work to determine the full circumstances behind the shooting.
Conclusion
The violent death of Sphamandla Mabonga has once again raised concerns over gun violence and crime in South Africa’s high-end social scene.
As the investigation continues, questions remain about his criminal history, access to firearms, and connections to illicit activities.
For now, the Sandton community mourns the loss of innocent bystanders, while law enforcement works to piece together the events that led to this deadly altercation.
