Zimbabwean footballer Divine Lunga survived a gun attack in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Sunday, July 5, 2026, according to South African police. The 31-year-old defender, who plays for Mamelodi Sundowns and the Zimbabwe national team, was driving through the inner-city suburb of Hillbrow when an unknown gunman opened fire on his car. Lunga escaped unharmed.
Incident Details
Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko confirmed the incident, stating that a case of attempted murder is under investigation. No arrests have been made. South African publication The Citizen reported that Lunga was on his way to church with his younger brother when the attack occurred. The suspect reportedly mistook Lunga for an undercover police officer and fired at their vehicle.
Background on Lunga
Divine Lunga has earned 21 caps for Zimbabwe's national team, the Warriors, and was part of the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. He joined Mamelodi Sundowns in 2021 and has helped the club win four domestic league titles, as well as their second African Champions League title in May 2026.
Reactions
Neither Mamelodi Sundowns nor the Zimbabwe Football Association have officially commented on the shooting. However, the Warriors' social media account posted a picture of Lunga in a prayer position with the caption: “In God we trust,” along with his name. The incident highlights the ongoing crime problem in South Africa, which has one of the highest murder rates globally.
