The Johannesburg mayor, Kabelo Gwamanda, has expressed sorrow after the killing of a member of the city’s group forensics and investigation services (GFIS) unit.
Ambushed at an intersection
Benedict Sithole was ambushed on Thursday on Booysens Road in Johannesburg by an unknown killer who approached his car at an intersection. His assassin or assassins started spraying his car with bullets, to the point where his vehicle crashed on the wall. The police declared him dead on the crime scene.
And it is understood that Sithole was a marked man. This as his job as an investigator was creating problems for some people in the city.
He was found in his bullet-riddled red VW Citi Golf by police.
Gwamanda conveyed his condolences to the family of the slain investigator
“Our condolences are extended to his family, friends and colleagues. As the city, we are most grateful for his diligent service and contribution in our efforts to root out malfeasance within the city,” said Gwamanda.
A planned hit
And then, he also stated that it was concerning that the murder could have been a planned hit.
“We are equally gravely concerned by early indications that this may have been an assassination.
“It is our hope and wish that the South African Police Services (SAPS) will leave no stone unturned in their investigation of the circumstances surrounding the killing of Mr. Sithole,” said Gwamanda.
He said that the killing would not deter the city’s quest to fight graft within the municipality.
“Without fear or doubt, I can expressly confirm that the city will not be deterred in its efforts to fight against corruption and malfeasance.
“If indeed Mr. Sithole is a victim of his contribution to this effort, in his name, we will ensure that we flush out the air from the chambers of our city for those who are corrupt and involved in nefarious activities,” Gwamanda added.
