Wandile Nsibande, a member of the March and March movement, has been granted bail of R1,000 following his arrest in connection with the recent protests and unrest in Durban.
The court reportedly found no sufficient basis to believe that Nsibande would intimidate witnesses, noting that the witnesses in the matter are police officers. His case has been postponed to 26 November 2026.
Why was Wandile Nsibande arrested?
Nsibande was arrested on Saturday, 10 October 2026, in Durban, during protests against illegal immigration and developments relating to asylum-seeker applications.
He appeared in the Durban Magistrate’s Court alongside Sphelele “Magolide” Shinga and Malizo Dzanibe. The three were accused of offences connected to the unrest, including incitement to commit public violence, public violence, possession of a dangerous weapon, resisting police, and obstructing traffic. The charges also include allegations relating to riotous or physically threatening conduct and contraventions of legislation governing gatherings and police conduct. (NPA)
The unrest in Durban saw businesses affected, vehicles set alight and clashes reported. Police also linked the arrests to concerns about attempts to disrupt activities in the city during the protest period. However, Nsibande has denied the allegations against him.
His previous conviction raised during bail proceedings
During earlier bail proceedings, the State told the court that Nsibande was on parole following a previous conviction involving robbery, kidnapping and attempted murder. Reports said he had received a 25-year prison sentence in 2009 and remained under parole supervision. The State relied on his circumstances when opposing his release. (IOL)
Nsibande has now been granted bail of R1,000. His case is scheduled to return to court on 26 November 2026.
