Police have launched a murder investigation following the fatal shooting of a 33-year-old Muslim cleric outside a mosque in Lentegeur on Wednesday night, just as the holy month of Ramadan started.

According to police, officers responded to reports of a shooting in Candytuft Street at around 22:55 on 18 February 2026, where they found the victim’s body lying in the street.

Police say the deceased had just left the mosque after evening Taraweeh prayers when he was gunned down by unknown suspects. “The motive for the shooting is yet to be determined,” police said in a statement.

The victim has been identified by the Salaamudien Masjid as Moulana Mustaqeem Wanza.

In an official notice, the mosque said, “It is with profound shock and deep sadness that we confirm that Moulana Mustaqeem Wanza was shot outside our masjid shortly after Taraweeh this evening and has since passed away.”

The mosque leadership extended condolences to his family and urged calm within the community, adding:

“We respectfully urge the community to refrain from speculation and from sharing unverified information. We will allow the relevant authorities to conduct a full investigation.” Two other individuals present at the time were confirmed unharmed.

The Darul Ulama Association Western Cape described Wanza as a respected religious figure whose influence reached far beyond his local community.

In a statement, the organisation said his “beautiful rendition of the Holy Qur’an… touched the hearts of Muslims across the global spectrum,” adding that his voice “will be sorely missed” and that he had inspired many young people to pursue the path of the Qur’an.

Police have appealed to anyone with information to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile application. Investigations are ongoing.