GAUTENG – The South African Police Service (SAPS) is investigating reports of an apparent assassination attempt on controversial businessman and alleged political fixer Brown Mogotsi in Vosloorus, east of Johannesburg.
Unconfirmed social media reports allege that Mogotsi was travelling in a vehicle that came under fire in Vosloorus Extension 25 on Tuesday morning. The vehicle reportedly sustained more than eight bullet strikes, though the condition of Mogotsi and his driver remains unknown.
SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed she was en route to Vosloorus police station this morning to verify the reports.
Mogotsi is a North West businessman whose influence has made him one of South Africa’s most controversial political figures. He is a former Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) operative who leveraged his liberation struggle credentials to build deep connections within ANC circles.
Mogotsi is currently embroiled in allegations tied to the notorious “Big Five Cartel” – a criminal syndicate linked to large-scale corruption and violent crime. The ongoing Madlanga Commission has heard testimony that Mogotsi allegedly extorted money from cartel figures under the guise of “ANC event packages”, facilitated R360 million in corrupt government contracts and promised police protection and leaked SAPS documents to criminal associates
The allegations have prompted ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula to publicly disown Mogotsi, calling him a “disgrace” and stating that corrupt members will not be protected by the party. Mbalula has acknowledged that criminal cartels have infiltrated the ANC, citing Mogotsi as a prime example.
Police have yet to confirm whether an attack actually occurred, any injuries or fatalities, or if arrests have been made in connection with the alleged incident.
Mogotsi maintains his innocence regarding corruption allegations and says he remains an ANC member in good standing. He has indicated readiness to appear before the Madlanga Commission to address the accusations against him.
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