WATCH: Moment Top Johannesburg Corruption Investigator Was Shot

WATCH: Moment Top Johannesburg Corruption Investigator Was Shot

Zenzele Benedict Sithole, a top corruption investigator with the City of Johannesburg’s Group Forensic and Investigation Service, was shot and killed in a targeted attack on Thursday.

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Tragic Details Emerge

Sithole, a father of five, was driving his red Volkswagen Citi Golf when a lone gunman opened fire on his vehicle at an intersection on Booysens Road. Sithole’s car crashed into a wall, and he was declared dead at the scene by paramedics.

Dozens of active case files related to the city’s forensic investigations were found in Sithole’s vehicle, suggesting he was targeted for his work exposing high-profile corruption cases worth millions of rands.

The police have launched a murder investigation, but no arrests have been made so far. CCTV footage of the incident has been widely shared on social media, sparking outrage and concern over the safety of corruption whistleblowers and investigators in the country.

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Outrage on Social Media

Many South Africans have pointed out the need for better protection and support for those risking their lives to fight corruption, with some calls for the establishment of a dedicated “Corruption Fighters Fund” to support the families of those murdered for doing their jobs. Here are some of the reactions:

@RNaidoo:

It’s so obvious an hit like this has government officials involved on what investigations he was doing? Whistleblowers and investigators are always at risk in this country.

@Ngubenil:

Rest in peace champ!!! Why are we spending millions on protecting ministers and officials dealing with explosive cases like drive around in ordinary cars? He was shot with a small calibre gun💔

@LuyLesego:

There needs to be some kind of Corruption Fighters Fund that provides funds for the families of people who have been murdered for just doing their jobs & investigating public corruption

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