Thato Molosankwe was reportedly shot and killed in the early hours of Wednesday morning (19/5) at the family business premises in Lomanyaneng village outside Mahikeng in the North West. Speaking at the scene, North West community safety and transport management MEC Wessels Morweng condemned the killing and urged residents to allow police to conduct their investigation without interference.

Morweng described the attack as a threat to democracy and accountability. “An attack on an activist is not only an attack on them, it is also an attack on accountability, democracy and the rule of law,” he said, warning against attempts to silence dissenting voices within communities.

He also acknowledged the impact Molosankwe had on the local community. “You can see with the community that has gathered here that we have lost a social activist who advocated for social justice.

“It’s quite disappointing to learn of this news, but I can tell you that the matter has received national attention. I can assure you that men and women in blue will bring those perpetrators to book. What we can urge the community on is to remain calm in these difficult times.”

National police commissioner Lt. Gen. Puleng Dimpane has instructed acting provincial commissioner Maj. Gen. (Dr) Ryno Naidoo to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for the killing.

Police said maximum resources would be deployed to track down the suspects linked to Molosankwe’s murder.

Family friend Masechaba Ngwenya, speaking to the media at the scene, expressed shock and sadness over Molosankwe’s death, describing him as a dedicated community member who created a safe environment for local children.

“I can attest to the type of person he was, and that being he was a good member of our community. If you come here every day, there are school kids who would be crowded here waiting for parents to come and pick them up. This was a safe haven.”

Ngwenya also described Molosankwe as a strong believer in Pan-Africanism who opposed xenophobia. “He didn’t like the idea of xenophobia, but he really appreciated the idea that we must have documented foreign nationals who should share and enjoy our land with us.”

The killing has also sparked widespread reaction on social media, with many users expressing concern over the safety of activists and outspoken community members in South Africa.

“I once said it, just mind your business in SA. The more you raise your voice or your head, the more you create enemies,” wrote Webster Mhandu on Facebook.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi sm

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.