The first night of Ramadan, a sacred time of reflection and devotion for Muslims around the world, was shattered by violence in New Lentegeur, Mitchells Plain, when a respected Moulana was gunned down shortly after leading evening prayers. The killing of 33 year old Moulana Mustaqeem Wanza has sent shockwaves through the Western Cape’s Muslim community, turning what should have been a night of spiritual renewal into one marked by anguish and disbelief.
Residents say the incident unfolded on Wednesday evening after the Moulana had led Salatul Taraweegh at Salaamudien Masjid. According to accounts shared with community leaders, he was leaving the area at around 22:55 when unknown gunmen allegedly opened fire in Candy Tuff Street. Police later confirmed that he was declared dead at the scene, his life cut short in a brazen act that has left worshippers reeling.
Darul Ulama Mourns A Revered Scholar
In a statement issued by the Darul Ulama Association in the Western Cape, the organisation described the Muslim community as deeply saddened by his passing, portraying him as a devoted servant of faith whose presence extended far beyond the walls of the mosque. His role as an Imaam and spiritual guide placed him at the centre of many lives, especially during the holy month when congregations gather nightly for extended prayer.
The association said:
“After proceeding to the house of one of his colleagues, a white polo allegedly stopped and shot Moulana Saheb eight times in Candy Tuft Street in New Lentegeur, and he was declared dead on the scene.”
They further urged restraint among the public, adding:
“We urge the Ummah to refrain from speculation, hearsay and the sharing of unverified information on social media but rather to honour his memory through Du’a and by supporting his grieving families.”
A Voice That Resonated Across Communities
Moulana Wanza was described as a respected Alim whose guidance and melodious recitation of the Holy Quran touched hearts across communities locally and abroad. Congregants recall how his voice during Taraweegh prayers would fill the masjid with calm, drawing worshippers into moments of deep reflection. For many, his leadership represented continuity, tradition and a moral anchor in a community grappling with broader social challenges.
The Salaamudien Masjid Imaamat and Committee said they were not in a position to comment further at this stage, citing the ongoing investigation. However, they extended heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and the broader community, acknowledging the profound loss felt during a month that symbolises mercy, patience and unity.
Police Confirm Investigation Underway
Western Cape police confirmed that detectives are probing the fatal shooting, with the motive yet to be determined. Constable Ndakhe Gwala said officers from Lentegeur police station responded to reports of gunfire in Candy Tuff Street on Wednesday evening and discovered the body of a 33 year old man on the roadway.
Gwala stated:
“Kindly be advised that on Wednesday 18 February 2026, Lentegeur police responded to reports of a shooting in Candy Tuff Street New Lentegeur. Upon arrival, they found a body of a 33-year-old male lying on the street .
“According to reports, the deceased was leaving the mosque at around 22:55, and he was gunned down by unknown men. The motive for the shooting is yet to be determined.”
Community Leaders Demand Justice
The killing has drawn strong condemnation from civic structures, with Lentegeur Community Policing Forum Chairperson Michael Jacobs calling for urgent action. He described the slain Moulana as a leader and role model whose influence extended beyond religious instruction into mentorship for young people navigating complex social realities.
Jacobs said:
“We call on the police and the detective services to put everything in your power in order to get to the bottom of the killing. The Moulana was a leader within in community and a role model to young people of faith.”
Authorities have appealed to anyone with information to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or to utilise the MySAPS mobile application, as investigators work to piece together the circumstances behind a killing that has cast a long shadow over the start of Ramadan in Mitchells Plain.
