Convicted cop killer Ayazola Fulu awaits sentencing in Western Cape

A man who was once on the most wanted list for a string of crimes is expected to wait a few more weeks before he knows his fate. 

Ayazola Fulu, 31, also known as China, was expected to be sentenced in the Western Cape High Court this week. 

Fulu was found guilty on multiple charges, including the murder of a member of the South African Police Service (SAPS), attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and possession of ammunition. 

He was arrested in April 2025 in court while appearing on an unrelated matter.  His arrest stemmed from an incident that took place in Khayelitsha in June 2024. 

According to evidence before the court, at approximately 9.30pm, Constable Akho Ndzingo and two colleagues were conducting crime prevention patrols in a marked SAPS Nissan bakkie in Site B. As the officers approached the corners of Badi and Ndabambi Streets in Q Section, they noticed a suspicious man standing on the side of the road. They stopped their vehicle to conduct a search of the suspect. As they approached, the suspect opened fire on the police officers. 

During the exchange of gunfire, Constable Ndzingo was struck once in the chest, above his bulletproof vest. The suspect sustained injuries during the shootout but managed to flee the scene on foot.

Constable Ndzingo was rushed to Khayelitsha Day Hospital by his colleagues, where he was declared dead on arrival.

At the time of his death, Ndzingo was only six months in the SAPS and was a Premier Soccer League (PSL) referee.

Fulu was convicted on the charge of murder of a SAPS member, two counts of attempted murder of a SAPS member, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and possession of ammunition. 

The matter has been postponed until August 3, 2026.  

[email protected]

IOL