Eastern Cape police have confirmed that Xolela Masebeni, the man accused of stealing R103 million from Absa, was shot dead in Komani on Saturday.
Provincial police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli, said the 31-year-old was shot outside his home at Unathi Mkefa in Ezibeleni.
“It is alleged that Xolela Masebeni was sitting in the yard with four of his friends when two unknown men accosted him. It is further said that Masebeni stood up and approached the two unknown men. His friend(s) heard several gunshots and started running in different directions.”
Nkohli said Masebeni sutained several gunshot wounds and was rushed to the nearest clinic, where he succumbed to his injuries,” he said.
“It is believed the two armed suspects fled the scene in a silver grey VW Polo,” he said.
News24 previously reported that Masebeni and his 21-year-old wife, Athembile Mpani, faced charges of theft, fraud and contravening the Prevention of Organised Crime Act. Masebeni was accused of fraudulently transferring R103 million into six bank accounts in four months with one account belonging to Mpani. The couple allegedly spent R200 000 on a shopping spree, bought seven cars and two properties.
Police are urging anyone with information, Nkohli said, that could lead to the arrest of the suspects to contact their nearest police station. The information may also be shared via Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
