WATCH: Suspect arrested in murder of Ekurhuleni official Mpho Mafole

The CoE has welcomed the arrest of a suspect in connection with the assassination of Mpho Mafole, the city’s late divisional head for Forensic and Investigations.

Mafole, a respected senior official and former member of the Auditor-General’s office, was gunned down on the evening of July 14 on the R23 in Kempton Park while returning home from a municipal meeting in Alberton.

He had only joined the city in April, but had already made a strong impression through his commitment to accountability and ethical governance.

The city praised the combined efforts of the SAPS, the EMPD and the Hawks for their swift action and ongoing determination in the high-profile case.

“This is a major breakthrough. We commend our law enforcement agencies for their tireless work and hope this arrest is the first step towards full justice. We trust that all those involved will be brought to book,” Zweli Dlamini, the city spokesperson, said.

A fearless advocate for integrity

Mafole’s assassination sent shockwaves through the municipality and beyond, as it came amid growing concern over targeted attacks on public officials involved in financial oversight and anti-corruption efforts.

Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza previously described Mafole as a fearless champion for ethical governance, warning that his murder posed a serious threat to the city’s efforts to renew public trust and eliminate corruption.

City spokesperson and the head of the Department of Communications, Marketing and Tourism, Phakamile Mbengashe, reaffirmed that the municipality was still assisting the police investigation, and risk assessments for employees in sensitive roles were ongoing.

“At this point, we cannot confirm any direct link between Mafole’s duties and the incident. However, given the high-risk nature of his work, we are treating the matter with the utmost seriousness,” said Mbengashe.

A devastated family seeks justice

Mafole’s family is heartbroken over his sudden and violent death. In tribute, they described him as a dedicated public servant passionate about changing the narrative in Ekurhuleni.

@alpha.rm Thabani Goodwill Ntshalintshali appeared in court for the murder of Mpho Mafole, a senior forensic auditor for the City of Ekurhuleni. Ntshalintshali is currently out on bail for another murder charge, which he allegedly committed in September of last year. #news #Politics #mphomafole #Murder #Mkhwanazi ♬ original sound – Mr. Alpha

“He loved serving people with purpose. He wanted a city where honesty and accountability were the norm,” his parents said.

The devastated family continue to call for answers and justice.

A troubling pattern of violence

Mafole’s murder is the latest in a disturbing string of violent attacks on municipal officials in Ekurhuleni.

In September 2023, the city’s CFO, Kagiso Lerutla, survived a shooting, and just three months later, adjudicator Simnikiwe Mapini was fatally shot in Germiston.

“These are not isolated incidents. We are working closely with the police to ensure staff safety and prevent future tragedies,” Mbengashe warned.

The Southern African Institute of Government Auditors and the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Co-operative Governance have condemned the killing and urged swift action.

Committee chairperson Dr Zweli Mkhize stressed the importance of protecting whistleblowers and anti-corruption officials.

“This cowardly and violent act threatens our democratic principles. We must urgently strengthen protections for those working to ensure clean governance,” Mkhize said.

Public urged to assist

The city is appealing to anyone who might have information about Mafole’s murder to come forward.

“Anyone with information can call the SAPS Crime Stop line on 086 001 0111. All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality,” Mkhize said.

As the investigation continues, Ekurhuleni has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, justice and the safety of all municipal employees.

“We will not be intimidated. Mpho Mafole’s legacy of integrity will endure, and we will honour his work by continuing the fight for good governance,” Xhakaza concluded.

ALSO READ: Official’s assassination signals threat to CoE’s anti-corruption drive