Missing EFF member Aaron Makola found dead near Delmas

The search for missing Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) member Aaron Makola has ended in tragedy after police discovered his body in a bush near Delmas, Mpumalanga.

According to SAPS Makola, 51, was reported missing after disappearing from Bronkhorstspruit on 10 July. His vehicle was found abandoned the following day, raising concern among his family and prompting an intensive investigation.

Political killings task team takes over investigation

The Gauteng Political Killings Task Team took over the case on 20 July after engaging with Makola’s family and receiving information that investigators believed could assist in tracing him.

Their investigation led officers to Delmas on Thursday, 30 July, where they found Makola’s remains.

The body of missing EFF member Aaron Makola (51) has been found in Delmas. Police believe he was shot before being dumped. SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe says investigations are at an advanced stage to identify and arrest those responsible. #SAPS #EFF #Crime #Gauteng pic.twitter.com/KoS5VxfdLU

Priya Ranchod (@PriyaRanchod) July 30, 2026

According to preliminary findings, Makola was shot before his body was dumped in a bush. His family has since positively identified him.

Police said the investigation has reached an advanced stage, with detectives working to identify and arrest those responsible for the killing. Investigators are also probing whether anyone may have planned or ordered the murder.

Authorities have not yet announced any arrests or revealed a possible motive.

News of Makola’s death spread quickly on social media, where many expressed condolences to his family and called for those responsible to be brought to justice.

The case has also renewed concern about politically linked violence in parts of Gauteng, where specialised police units continue investigating cases involving attacks on political figures and activists. At this stage, police have not confirmed whether Makola’s killing was directly connected to his political activities.

Investigators are expected to continue gathering evidence as they work to establish exactly what happened in the weeks following his disappearance.

The Gauteng Political Killings Task Team has urged anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward.