Tragedy Strikes Mthatha Campus Again as Police Probe the Murder of a WSU Staff Member
A staff member at Walter Sisulu University (WSU) was tragically gunned down at the Mthatha campus on Thursday evening, marking the second shooting at the university in recent months. The incident has shaken both the academic community and local residents, as police race to uncover the motive behind the crime.
What Happened at the Campus Gate?
According to Eastern Cape police, the staff member was found dead inside a stationary vehicle near the Nkululekweni entrance gate, which sits adjacent to the busy N2 highway. The discovery was made just before 18:00 on Thursday.
Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana confirmed that preliminary forensic analysis revealed the victim had sustained multiple gunshot wounds while seated in the driver’s seat. The vehicle had not moved, and investigators believe the victim was attacked without warning.
“The motive remains unknown at this stage,” said Gantana. “Detectives and forensic experts are still combing through the scene for clues.”
Identity Withheld Pending Family Notification
While speculation circulates online, police have withheld the victim’s name until next-of-kin are officially informed. This is in accordance with SAPS protocol, which prioritises the dignity and privacy of the deceased’s family during such investigations.
Police Vow to Prioritise the Case
Acting Eastern Cape Police Commissioner, Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, assured the public that the full weight of law enforcement had been mobilised.
“We are deploying maximum resources to track down the perpetrator,” said Kupiso. “We urge the public to avoid speculation that might compromise the integrity of the investigation.”
Second Shooting in Months Raises Alarm
This incident follows the April 15th shooting of Bachelor of Education student Sisonke Mbolekwa, who was allegedly shot dead by WSU residence manager Manelisi Mampane. Mampane, now facing murder and attempted murder charges, was released on R10,000 bail, triggering protests from students and staff.
The latest murder now deepens safety concerns at the institution, and many are calling for tighter campus security and broader intervention to address violence in university spaces.
Campus in Mourning Amid Broader Regional Tragedy
The shooting occurred on the same day that the King Sabata Dalindyebo TVET College hosted a provincial day of mourning for victims of last week’s devastating floods in Mthatha. At least 92 people died, and over 4,000 households were affected by the disaster.
The convergence of these tragedies has cast a long shadow over the Mthatha community, where grief now runs deep.
WSU’s Response and Security Measures
Walter Sisulu University has yet to issue a full statement regarding the latest shooting, but internal sources confirm that counselling services will be made available for affected staff and students. Heightened security patrols are also reportedly being arranged across all WSU campuses.
A Call for Calm and Justice
As detectives continue their work, the public is reminded to refrain from spreading unverified information. The Eastern Cape police remain committed to finding those responsible for this senseless act of violence, and they appeal to anyone with relevant information to contact local authorities or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
Also read: Wynberg Court Shooting Labeled ‘Revenge Murder’ as NPA Arrests Second Suspect
