**Missing South African Political Activist Found Shot Dead**
The search for Aaron Makola, a 51-year-old member of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party, has ended tragically with the discovery of his body in Delmas, South Africa. Makola was reported missing on July 10, 2026, prompting an investigation that intensified following the discovery of his abandoned vehicle the next day.
National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe confirmed that the Gauteng Political Killings Task Team (GP PKTT) officially took over the investigation on July 20 after engaging with Makola’s family. The team gathered information that they believed could assist in locating him. Mathe stated, “An extensive investigation led members of the GP PKTT to Delmas on Thursday, July 30, 2026, where the EFF member was tragically found.”
Preliminary investigations suggest that Makola had been shot before his body was disposed of in a bush. His family has been notified and has positively identified his remains. Authorities are currently working to identify and apprehend those responsible for his murder, including both the shooters and any individuals who may have orchestrated the crime. However, as of now, a motive for the killing remains unclear.
In a related context, the issue of political violence in South Africa has garnered attention, particularly with the recent arrest of Sipho Lucky Mahlangu, a 34-year-old man charged with the murder of Monica Dube, the Election Coordinator and Secretary for the EFF in the Tshwane Region Two. Mahlangu faces charges of robbery with aggravating circumstances and murder, having abandoned his bail application.
The incident involving Dube occurred on June 13, when it is alleged that Mahlangu and an accomplice broke into her residence in Wallmansthal. Reports indicate that they shot her in the head while her children were present in the home and subsequently stole her cellphone. Following the crime, Dube's daughter spotted Mahlangu at a taxi rank, which led to his arrest.
The case against Mahlangu has been postponed to September 17 for further investigations. These incidents highlight ongoing concerns regarding political violence and the safety of political activists in South Africa, particularly those affiliated with opposition parties like the EFF.
As investigations continue into both Makola's and Dube's cases, the Gauteng Political Killings Task Team remains committed to addressing the rising tide of political killings in the region.