Wynberg hof 'killers' heading to High Court

Five individuals are preparing for a potential High Court trial related to the death of Dingalomoya Chinsto, who was assassinated inside the Wynberg Magistrates Court on April 7, 2025. Shireen Matthews, Abubaker Adams, Brian Booysen, Wanay Farao, and Vuyisani Zengetha appeared in the Wynberg Magistrates Court on Friday concerning the case.

Details of the Incident

According to an eyewitness, a lone gunman wearing a maroon t-shirt and a black beanie shot Chinsto four times in the head after taking a firearm from a sling bag. The shooting caused panic, with concerns the gunman remained within the courthouse. Sources indicated Chinsto was a person of interest in the murder of Ashley “Essie” Phillips, a Junky Funky Kidz (JFK) gang boss, who was shot in January 2025 outside Brackenfell Police Station.

Charges Filed

The five accused face charges including aiding and abetting criminal gang activities associated with the JFK gang, murder, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. Bail was previously denied to Matthews and Farao, while others abandoned their bail applications.

Did You Know? The victim, Dingalomoya Chinsto, was a person of interest in the murder of Ashley “Essie” Phillips.

Following bail application proceedings, Adams, Booysen, Farao, and Zengetha found themselves without legal representation. Legal aid was unavailable due to its representatives being present during the murder.

Next Steps

A postponement on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, allowed for a decision regarding whether the case will proceed in the regional court or the High Court. It is anticipated the case will be heard in the High Court, and a judicare representative will be appointed. The case is currently scheduled to resume on March 25.

Expert Insight: The move to the High Court suggests the prosecution intends to pursue a more substantial legal process, potentially indicating a complex case with significant evidence or a desire for harsher penalties if convicted.

Frequently Asked Questions

What charges are the accused facing?

The accused face charges of aiding and abetting criminal gang activities in association with the JFK gang, murder, and the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

When is the case scheduled to resume?

The case was postponed to March 25.

Were all the accused able to secure legal representation?

Adams, Booysen, Farao, and Zengetha were left without legal representation, and a judicare representative will be appointed.

How might the complexities of gang-related violence impact the pursuit of justice in this case?

Wynberg hof ‘killers’ heading to High Court