Accused killer of Ekurhuleni auditor remanded in custody as probe into R2 billion corruption-linked murder deepens
 |
| Murder suspect in high-profile auditor case back behind bars as investigators pursue leads in Ekurhuleni corruption probe |
In a dramatic court appearance today, 40‑year‑old Thabani Ntshalintshali appeared before the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court, facing charges for the murder of former Ekurhuleni chief auditor Mpho Mafole.
Mafole, aged 47, was shot dead in a drive‑by attack while driving on the R23 highway in Kempton Park on 30 June 2025 . As head of corporate and forensic audits for the City of Ekurhuleni, he had been investigating a staggering R2 billion electricity billing scandal prior to his death . His killing sparked national shock and led to calls for stronger protections for anti‑corruption officials .
Ntshalintshali was arrested amid ongoing investigations linking him to Mafole’s murder. He was already out on bail pending a separate murder trial. Today, the court remanded him in custody, citing the gravity of the charges and the public interest involved. His case has been postponed to 15 August 2025 for further investigation and pre‑trial motions.
On 15 August, the case will return to Kempton Park Magistrate's Court, where the prosecution is expected to present additional evidence. In the meantime, Ntshalintshali remains in custody. The police have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward to aid the investigation.
Ekurhuleni Municipality, COGTA, civil-society groups like Defend Our Democracy, and the Auditor‑General’s Office expressed outrage, labelling Mafole’s killing as a deliberate hit to intimidate corruption fighters .
Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza called for national police and security agency involvement, revealing this as the latest in a concerning series of attacks on municipal anti corruption operatives .
Advocacy groups highlighted a growing trend of targeted killings aimed at silencing individuals fighting corruption. SAFTU described it as "a hit, a targeted execution" and urged legislative reform to protect whistle-blowers .
The case highlights persistent dangers faced by public servants in anti-corruption roles. With the suspect now in custody, all eyes are on the August court date, as the justice system seeks to bring accountability not just for Mafole’s killer, but also for broader institutional failures in safeguarding those who expose corruption.
Court date: 15 August 2025
Accused: Thabani Ntshalintshali (40), currently remanded in custody
Victim: Mpho Mafole (47), forensic auditor investigating a R2 billion scandal
You may also be interested in:
Thabani Ntshalintshali Remanded in Custody Over Murder of Ekurhuleni Auditor
Kenny Kunene Found at Home of DJ Sumbody’s Alleged Murder Mastermind During Police Raid
"Bring Jerry Home": Pretoria Businessman Still Missing After Brazen Kidnapping
0 Comments