Gospel group Abanqobi loses tour bus to armed hijackers in Durban

Renowned gospel group Abanqobi have lost their tour bus following a hijacking incident involving two of their members.
The group shared the news on their official Facebook page: “Kwaphela kanjaloke ngebhasi la 15 years. Inkulu into esiyenze kubantu esingayazi. Kodwa kona Abanqobi abayi ndawo. Sibonga imikhuleko.”
Loosely translated, it reads: “After 15 years together, our beloved bus is gone. Though it’s hard to understand, our hearts and mission remain unshaken. Thank you for your prayers.”
The incident occurred on the evening of Tuesday, August 26.

Bus had just been serviced

Speaking to Sunday World, group leader Mandla Ntuli said the bus was returning from service when the hijacking took place.
“The bus was on its way to KwaNdengezi [in Durban] to drop off one of our colleagues. According to Sbusiso ‘Lamont’ Bhengu, who was driving the bus, another vehicle suddenly blocked the road. They were held at gunpoint and forced out of the bus. And the suspects drove off with the bus and their cellphones,” Ntuli said.
Bhengu immediately reported the incident to the police. “Police later found the bus in Wyebank in the middle of the night.

Found hours later stripped of parts

“It had been stripped of doors, engine, seats, and wheels, they were all removed. We don’t know who is behind this. The bus is branded, everybody knows it, especially in Umlazi township. It has been with us for 15 years,” Ntuli added.
Abanqobi, formed in the early 2000s, has been a household name in the South African gospel scene. They are known for hits that blend traditional Zulu harmonies with contemporary gospel sounds.
Over the years, the group has performed at countless church events, national festivals, and charity drives. They earned a reputation for uplifting performances and community outreach.
Their bus has been a staple in the group’s 15-year journey. It has been instrumental in transporting members and equipment to shows across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.
KwaZulu-Natal Police spokesperson Thenjiswa Ngcobo confirmed the incident.

Police confirm incident

“Police in KwaNdengezi are investigating a carjacking incident in which a 44-year-old man was allegedly hijacked at Tom Tom Road, Ezitinini, on 26 August 2025,” Ngcobo said.
Their colleagues in the gospel fraternity, Facebook friends, fans and community members have expressed shock and solidarity. They pledged prayers and support for the group during this troubling time.
Hijackings and vehicle thefts have been a growing concern in KwaZulu-Nata. With criminal networks increasingly targeting vehicles used for commercial and group transport.

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