Controversial businessman Brown Mogotsi had been expected to open a case with local police. But he failed to present himself at the Vosloorus police station.

Mogotsi, who has a history of legal and business disputes, was reportedly shot at while driving a small Chevrolet sedan around 22:00 on Monday, said national police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe.

At least eleven bullets pierced the vehicle, indicating a clear attempt on the businessman’s life, she added. However, the case took a bizarre twist when Mogotsi reportedly did not cooperate with police, and has not yet provided a statement about the incident.

Brown Mogotsi. Picture: Facebook/News 24/7 Update

Despite assurances from Mogotsi’s legal team, the businessman has failed to keep his appointment with law enforcement.

“He gave the station commander (the) number of his bodyguard but (the) phone (rang) unanswered,” she said. “We have attempted to make contact to find out how far they are in terms of making their way to Vosloorus police station to open a case and make a statement.

“We are hoping with what the lawyers have communicated with our investigation team, he will honour the appointment.”

‘We need to get to the bottom of what happened’

In the meantime, police are unable to proceed with the investigation without Mogotsi’s direct input. If it’s determined the attack was fabricated, Mogotsi could face charges of defeating the ends of justice.

“We cannot close the case,” said Mathe. “We are going to solve it. There are resources that have been spent here, and there is personnel that was sent to the particular crime scene.

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“We need to get to the bottom of what happened. Whether Mr. Mogotsi presents himself or makes himself available for a statement to be taken, we are continuing with an investigation into the attempted murder.”

Mogotsi is expected to be a key witness in the Madlanga commission inquiry, which has revealed numerous ties between criminal syndicates and certain high-ranking law enforcement officials. The commission, which is investigating political interference, criminality, and corruption in South Africa’s criminal justice system, had raised concerns over the businessman’s safety.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mc