Police have not only launched a manhunt but also set aside a R50 000 reward for information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect(s) who allegedly shot and killed African National Congress (ANC) ward councillor Thabang Maupa at Ribacross outside Burgersfort on Monday evening.
Maupa was a councillor at Ward 5 of the Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality and, according to Pastor Derick Mosoana, President of Christians of South Africa (Cosa), known for his unshakeable stand on the VBS scandal that allegedly left the municipality bankrupt and in dire state of leaderlessness.
“His murder was politically motivated as he received death threats shortly after calling for decisive measures to been taken against his political seniors implicated in the VBS scandal. Cosa vehemently denounces any kind of prejudice and criminal activity based on political affiliation. We will not allow cowardly acts committed by faceless thugs to derail us from our efforts to stamp out corruption,” a press release quoted Mosoana to have said.
He called on the Police to ensure that the suspect(s) is speedily brought to book.
According to Provincial Police Corporate Communications Head, Motlafela Mojapelo cases of murder and attempted murder are being investigated.
This follows an incident outside a liquor restaurant belonging to Maupa and his wife. Mojapelo stated that Maupa had arrived at the business situated along the R37 just before closing time to help his wife lock up for the day.
The couple, having locked up, was seated in their vehicle when a suspect on foot allegedly opened fire on them hitting Maupa several times. He died on the scene and his wife sustained serious bullet wounds, according to Mojapelo.
He added that the motive behind the killing was still being investigated and that a reward of R50 000 was available for any information that might lead to the arrest and subsequent conviction of the suspects.
Anyone with information can contact investigating officer Makhathini Ngele on 082 573 3645 or report to the nearest Police station.
Story: RC Myburgh
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