Man with alleged gang links slain

THE SAPS are searching for suspects behind the killing of a Mamelodi man, said to have links with the notorious Boko Haram gang, after he was fatally shot on Friday afternoon.

Police spokesperson Captain Mavela Masondo said they had opened a case of murder and were searching for suspects, after the 48-year-old was slain in Mamelodi at about 4pm.

Masondo said the man, only known as Zorro, was apparently driving a Toyota Hilux when assailants started firing shots at him until his vehicle came to a stop.

“The man, who sustained multiple gunshot wounds, was certified dead on the scene, with the motive for the killing unknown at this stage.

“Police are appealing to anyone who might have information that can help in the investigation or assist in the apprehension of suspects to please call their nearest police.”

Following the announcement of the killing, social media users said Zorro was a gangster, with links to the infamous Boko Haram gang, known for allegedly being involved in a spate of robberies and extortion, intimidation and other serious and violent crimes in Mamelodi and surrounding areas.

The gang was said to have infiltrated all sectors of the township, with guns in hand, demanding payment from local businesses for protection and mere existence.

One person tweeted: “The guy Zorro, is a big criminal on his own, also feared by many police stations. I just spoke to business people that were terrorised and extorted by these thugs, they are excited and wishing John Wick many many more years.

“Zorro was a thug, a gangster, a leading member of Boko Haram, a murderer and an extortionist. He met his match at last and all his goons will meet the same fate for sure,” commented user Cortez the gypsy.

Walter Mogodu added: “People know Mukatuni was a most feared man (in the) 1990s in the whole South African taxi industry, but a ZCC member in high rank.”

Another, posting footage of the shooting near a police station, said: “Zorro has been shot dead in extension 4 by suspects driving a BMW. They had assault rifles … who is cleaning Mamelodi up? Because it looks like the police don’t want to be caught in the middle.”

They said the deceased had links with jailed Vusi Khekhe: “There is a power struggle now that Khekhe is in C-Max. Everyone is trying to get a piece of the pie.”

The police did not confirm knowledge of the killing with Boko Haram or any gang-related murders.