Actor And Small-Business Owner Phumlani Vokovi And Wife Shot Dead Amid Alleged Extortion Dispute
Actor, artist manager and small-business owner Phumlani Vokovi and his wife, Nichume, have been shot dead in Cape Town amid claims that the killings may be linked to an alleged protection-fee dispute.
Vokovi was reportedly shot last week while closing his roadside food stall, where he sold tripe for R20 a plate. His wife was later shot dead at their home.
Western Cape police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed that police are investigating two counts of murder. No arrests have been made.
Friends of Vokovi believe the killings may have followed a dispute over an alleged monthly protection fee demanded from his business.
One friend, who spoke anonymously, said people in the area were discussing the alleged extortion but were afraid to speak publicly.
Another friend claimed Vokovi had refused to pay the alleged fee and said the actor did not have a funeral policy. Friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry have since been raising funds towards his funeral, according to the Sunday Times.
Vokovi’s family has not confirmed that the deaths were linked to extortion. Relatives said they would wait for the police investigation before commenting further, citing concerns for their safety.
Vokovi was known for his involvement in the arts in Khayelitsha. Earlier reports described him as a former comedian who later became an event organiser and worked to promote emerging artists from the township.
The alleged killings come amid growing concern over extortion in the Western Cape.
Police have not confirmed that extortion was the motive for the Vokovi killings.
The investigation will determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths and whether the alleged protection-fee dispute was connected to the murders.