‘Hits’ linked to complex underworld

THE South African underworld is much more complex than ordinary folk, even the police, could fathom.

Following the shooting of DJ and MC Peter Mabuse, popularly known as Mashata, in the early hours of Sunday in Soshanguve, many bemoaned the high crime rate in the township and country at large.

However, as details began to emerge, it became clear that the killing was a hit and not a criminal act linked to hijacking or robbery.

The police have opened a case of murder and attempted murder. Reports indicate that Mabuse died in hospital while another victim, who was with him, was left wounded.

The suspects fled and police are following several leads.

In the early hours of Sunday, November 20, 2022, Oupa John Sefoka, better known as DJ Sumbody, was shot dead in a drive-by shooting. Police are yet to arrest the killers.

On the morning of January 30, 2023, Bacardi pioneer Itumeleng Mosoeu, known as Vusi Ma R5, was sitting with his friends outside a tavern in Soshanguve when he crossed the road to his car.

The others heard gun shots, and when they went to investigate they found the him lying on the ground. No suspects have been arrested.

Then there is the much-publicised shooting of Kiernan Forbes, “AKA”, and his close friend, Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane, as they were walking towards their car from a restaurant in Durban. In this matter, suspects have been arrested.

Another matter that remains unsolved is the July 16, 2019 murder of retired soccer star Marc Batchelor outside his home by two men who were riding a motorbike. The former goal-poacher had long been reported to have links with the underworld.

Remember murdered mining magnate Brett Kebble? May we never have another repeat of that murder mystery, where a killer confesses, reveals everything, but then walks free.

We urge police to leave no avenue unexplored in ensuring that the perpetrators of these crimes are brought to book, for the sake of the lost souls and their families and to ensure peace in our land.