Senior Ekurhuleni Auditor Gunned Down: Police Investigate Killing of Mpho Mafole

Shock and suspicion swirl as high-ranking municipal official is fatally shot in Kempton Park

The City of Ekurhuleni is reeling after one of its top officials, Mpho Mafole, was gunned down in a suspected targeted attack on Monday evening. Mafole, who served as the city’s group divisional head for corporate and forensic audits, was shot dead while driving along the R23 near Kempton Park.

His death has raised serious concerns within municipal ranks and reignited fears over the safety of whistleblowers and officials in sensitive roles.

Killed Behind the Wheel

According to Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, officers responded to a shooting just before 6pm and discovered Mafole slumped inside his vehicle with multiple gunshot wounds. The suspects fled the scene and remain at large.

“The motive for the shooting is unknown at this stage. Police investigations are ongoing,” said Nevhuhulwi.

No arrests have been made.

Auditor Role Raises Questions

Mafole was not just any official, he held a powerful position within the City of Ekurhuleni’s internal oversight structure. As the divisional head of corporate and forensic audits, he was responsible for investigating irregularities, corruption, and financial misconduct within the municipality.

Although police have not confirmed whether his murder was related to his work, the nature of his role has prompted speculation.

Sources close to the city’s administration, who asked not to be named, said Mafole had been involved in a number of high-stakes investigations. “You don’t hold that kind of portfolio and not make enemies,” one official noted.

City Officials Respond with Shock and Support

In a statement issued on Tuesday, City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson Zweli Mbengashe said the municipality was deeply saddened by Mafole’s death.

“We understand that this news may cause concern among staff. We wish to assure employees and residents that the city is committed to providing a safe and secure working environment,” he said.

The city said it was working closely with law enforcement and would release more details as they become available.

“Our thoughts are with Mr Mafole’s family, friends and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.”

Rising Violence Raises Alarms

Mafole’s murder comes at a time when South Africa is grappling with rising violent crime, especially against individuals in positions of accountability or public trust. While no link has been established between Mafole’s death and his professional duties, the pattern echoes other incidents where public servants in investigative or enforcement roles have been targeted.

Parallel Tragedy: Gugulethu Mass Shooting

In a separate incident, police in Cape Town arrested a 35-year-old suspect in connection with a mass shooting in Gugulethu that left seven people dead. The victims were socialising at the Kanana informal settlement when gunmen opened fire early Saturday morning.

Colonel Andrè Traut of the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Unit confirmed the arrest and said that a second suspect, Loyiso Matinisi, remains at large.

“We appeal to the public for any information on Matinisi’s whereabouts,” Traut said.

The incident underscores the broader issue of gun violence sweeping the country, as authorities struggle to contain both organised crime and random acts of brutality.

What Now for Ekurhuleni?

For Ekurhuleni, Mafole’s death is not just a personal loss, it may prove a test of the city’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and staff protection. As the investigation unfolds, many are watching closely to see whether the motive will reveal cracks in a system already under scrutiny.

In the meantime, staff at the municipality remain shaken, and calls are growing for heightened security for those tasked with rooting out corruption.

Mpho Mafole’s murder adds to growing fears about the safety of public officials in South Africa, particularly those working to uncover corruption. While police investigate, the city must now confront the difficult question: how do you protect those who protect public trust?

{Source: The Citizen}

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