Accused in Ekurhuleni Auditor’s Murder Case Appears in Court

Thabani Goodwill Ntshalintshali, a 40-year-old man accused of murdering City of Ekurhuleni Senior Auditor, Mpho Mafole, appeared in the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court today. Ntshalintshali faces charges of murder after Mafole was fatally shot on 30 June 2025, shortly after a work-related meeting.

The case has been postponed to 15 August 2025 for further investigation. According to the State’s allegations, Ntshalintshali followed Mafole after the meeting and subsequently shot him in Kempton Park. Mafole, a highly respected senior official in the City of Ekurhuleni, was declared dead at the scene.

The police investigation was launched after a witness reported a suspicious vehicle in the vicinity shortly after the shooting. This tip led authorities to investigate further, ultimately leading to the identification of Ntshalintshali as the key suspect in the case.

In addition to the murder charge related to Mafole’s death, Ntshalintshali is facing another murder charge from an unrelated case, which is scheduled to go to trial on 12 and 19 August 2025.

This has led to the State’s decision to oppose his bail application, citing concerns over the seriousness of the charges against him.

Ntshalintshali remains in custody pending his next court appearance.

Phindi Mjonondwane, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Gauteng, commented on the case, emphasising the ongoing nature of the investigation.

“We are focused on thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding Mr. Mafole’s death and ensuring that justice is served,” Mjonondwane said.

“We are exploring all avenues in this case, and further arrests cannot be ruled out as we gather more evidence.”Mafole’s death has left a significant impact on the local community and his colleagues at the City of Ekurhuleni. Known for his dedication to transparency and effective public sector auditing, Mafole’s passing has raised concerns about the safety of government employees, particularly in light of the violent nature of the crime.

His colleagues have expressed deep sadness and shock over the incident, remembering him as a committed professional whose work had a profound impact on the city’s operations.

The tragic killing of Mafole has prompted calls for stronger measures to protect public servants, particularly those working in sensitive areas like financial oversight and auditing.

Public servants who are involved in exposing corruption or fraud, like Mafole, can often find themselves at risk due to their roles.

The murder has prompted public outcry and raised questions about the broader issue of public safety for officials in the government sector.

As the investigation into Mafole’s death continues, the NPA has assured the public that every effort is being made to bring the perpetrator(s) to justice.

The NPA has urged people with information about the case to come forward, assuring them that their information will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

Ntshalintshali’s appearance today marks a critical step in the legal process, but the case is still in its early stages with a second trial pending in August.