Timeline: John Wick of Pretoria & Boko Haram (2021–2025)

This timeline summarizes the reported incidents, arrests, and public discussions surrounding the so-called John Wick of Pretoria and its alleged links to the local Boko Haram gang in Mamelodi. The identity of “John Wick” remains unconfirmed and the events outlined here are based on publicly available reports and community accounts.

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2021 – John Wick News/Reports

• Early 2021: Multiple targeted shootings reported in Mamelodi and surrounding areas. Victims were often linked to extortion networks, including local groups referred to as Boko Haram.
• Mid 2021: Police arrested a suspect in connection with some of the shootings. Community members debated whether this individual was the “real John Wick.” No official confirmation was made.
• Late 2021: Social media and local forums amplified the “John Wick” nickname for the unknown gunman, creating urban legend status in Pretoria townships.

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2022 – John Wick News/Reports

• Early 2022: A reduction in shootings observed. Rumours continued of a vigilante figure targeting Boko Haram members, though police did not publicly verify these claims.
• Mid 2022: Local radio and community discussions frequently mentioned John Wick in the context of gang violence and extortion.
• Late 2022: Media outlets published retrospective reports describing the alleged precision and professional methods of the supposed assassin. Identity remained unknown.

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2023 – John Wick News/Reports

• Throughout 2023: Sporadic incidents of targeted violence continued. Alleged involvement of a “John Wick” figure persisted in community discussions, especially related to clashes with Boko Haram.
• Authorities cautioned that some reports may involve multiple individuals rather than a single person.

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2024 – John Wick News/Reports

• Early 2024: Community and social media narratives suggested that vigilante-style activity had largely ceased. References to “John Wick” persisted mainly as folklore and cautionary tales.
• Mid 2024: Civil society groups and journalists documented the legacy of the “John Wick” myth, emphasizing its ties to Mamelodi gang violence, particularly Boko Haram.

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2025 – John Wick News/Reports

• November 2025: During testimony at the Madlanga Commission, businessman Brown Mogotsi alleged that Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala was the individual referred to as the “John Wick” of Pretoria. Mogotsi suggested links between Matlala and senior political figures and referenced connections to Boko Haram gang members.
• These claims remain unproven allegations and are being reviewed by the Commission. The testimony renewed public interest in the John Wick narrative and its potential connections to organized crime in Mamelodi.

Key Notes About This Timeline

• All events are based on publicly available reports, media coverage, community accounts, or statements made during the Madlanga Commission.
• The identity of the so-called “John Wick” has never been officially confirmed.
• References to Boko Haram in Mamelodi pertain to a local gang involved in extortion and violence, not the Nigerian extremist group.
• This timeline does not assign criminal responsibility to any individual.

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Conclusion

The “John Wick of Pretoria” remains an unconfirmed figure who has become part of local urban legend, with alleged links to Mamelodi gangs such as Boko Haram. While several targeted killings occurred and arrests were made, no definitive, public evidence has linked all incidents to a single person. The Madlanga Commission may provide further clarity on these allegations.

Disclaimer: This timeline is based on publicly available reports and testimony. It does not present allegations as proven facts and does not accuse any individual of criminal activity.

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