Mpho Mafole, the City of Ekurhuleni’s head of corporate and forensic audits, was gunned down in a brazen attack on Tuesday evening. The 47-year-old was shot multiple times while driving along the R23 in Esselen Park just before 6 PM.
Police found Mafole’s body inside his vehicle, but no suspects have been identified yet. The motive remains unclear, though his recent role leading high-profile corruption investigations has raised suspicions.
Mafole had only joined the municipality three months ago after 14 years at South Africa’s Auditor-General’s office. His work involved probing financial misconduct, making his killing particularly alarming amid ongoing anti-graft efforts.
The City of Ekurhuleni expressed devastation, calling him a “dedicated public servant committed to accountability.” Colleagues and officials have honored his integrity, while police appeal for witnesses to come forward.
Authorities are investigating whether his assassination was linked to his forensic audits, but no official confirmation has been made. The case has intensified concerns over the safety of whistleblowers and anti-corruption officials in South Africa.