A 44-year-old man, identified as a person of interest in the recent murder of community activist Pamela Mabini, was fatally shot at the Njoli Street taxi rank in Gqeberha on Monday, according to local news media. The incident occurred around noon, leaving the community in shock as they grapple with the second violent death in less than a week.
Police spokesperson, Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg, confirmed that the deceased suffered multiple gunshot wounds. She stated, “The investigating officer confirmed that the deceased was a person of interest in the murder case of Pamela Phumla Mabini (46), who was shot and killed on Friday, 7 March, in Tshauka Street, Kwazakhele.”
Pamela Mabini, a well-known human rights and anti-crime activist, was found inside her white Chevrolet bakkie with multiple gunshot wounds outside her family home. Her untimely death has left family members devastated, with her cousin, Luzuko Gaxamba, expressing the profound loss: “It’s not easy to lose a member of the family, especially in this way. Pam was also the breadwinner of the family.
Mabini was renowned for her dedication to assisting destitute community members through her non-profit organization, the Maro Foundation. She also played a pivotal role in supporting victims in high-profile cases, including the Timothy Omotoso alleged rape and trafficking case.
The recent killing at the taxi rank has intensified concerns about safety and justice within the community. Police are urging anyone with information regarding the murder to contact the investigating officer, Detective Colonel Anthea Hector, at 082 457 5036, or to reach out anonymously through Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or by approaching the nearest police station.