Public Urged to Share Information as Investigations Continue into the Assassination of IFP Leader Khethamabala Petros Sithole in Katlehong
The Gauteng police have made a fervent appeal to the public for any information that could assist in solving the murder of Khethamabala Petros Sithole, the Inkatha Freedom Party IFP deputy chief whip in Parliament, who was brutally gunned down in Katlehong on Saturday afternoon, 31 May 2025.
The fatal shooting occurred during a meeting held at the Buyafuthi hostel, a location that has, in the past, been associated with volatile political activity. According to Gauteng police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili, three unknown suspects opened fire on a group of men gathered at the venue around 5:30 PM. Sithole was declared dead at the scene, while two other individuals sustained gunshot wounds—one of whom remains hospitalised.
Police Seek Witnesses and Information
Brigadier Muridili confirmed that no arrests have been made thus far. “The motive for the shootings is unknown at this stage,” she said. She urged the public to come forward with any leads, emphasising the urgency and importance of community involvement in cracking the case.
Anyone with relevant information can contact the Crime Stop toll-free number 08600 10111 or submit an anonymous tip via the MySAPS mobile app.
The police have not yet ruled out the possibility of political motivation behind the shooting, though the investigation is ongoing and details remain limited at this time.
A Party Mourns a Patriot
The IFP has publicly condemned the killing, labelling it an “assassination”. In a strongly worded statement, IFP spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa described Sithole as a loyal patriot and devoted servant of the people.
“We have lost a trusted patriot and a diligent leader of the IFP,” Hlengwa said. “Jobe [Sithole] joined the IFP in his youth and served in various party structures, including being IFP Gauteng provincial chairperson.”
Sithole’s political journey spans decades:
- He served as a councillor in Ekurhuleni,
- briefly joined the Gauteng Legislature (2009–2010),
- and was redeployed to the National Assembly in 2010, where he remained an active and vocal figure until his tragic death.
Political Violence in Focus
This latest killing casts a chilling shadow over the state of political violence in South Africa, particularly in townships like Katlehong, which have historically seen tension between political groupings. While police have not confirmed a political motive, the timing and execution of the attack have raised questions about security for public officials.
The IFP has called for a full investigation and demanded that law enforcement “spare no effort” in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
How You Can Help
Community members who may have witnessed the shooting or have information about the suspects are encouraged to break their silence. As authorities continue to piece together evidence, public cooperation could prove critical in solving this high-profile crime.
Anyone with relevant information is urged to:
- Call 08600 10111
- Use the MySAPS App to report anonymously
Your voice might be the one that helps bring justice.
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