Gqeberha community activist Pamela Mabini was shot and killed outside her home in KwaZakhele on Friday morning.
Pamela Mabini murder: Here is everything we know so far
The 46-year-old, known for her activism and advocacy for victims of crime, was gunned down in her driveway in what police are treating as a murder investigation.
Her cousin, Luzuko Gaxamba, confirmed her death, saying the family is devastated.
“Pam was the breadwinner of the household, so you can imagine how this tragedy has affected us,” Gaxamba told News24.
Mabini had been a longtime activist, fighting for social justice, supporting survivors of gender-based violence, and advocating for safer communities.
She also challenged former police minister Bheki Cele, urging him to experience firsthand the realities of crime in Gqeberha.
She had survived a previous attempt on her life in May 2018, when unknown gunmen shot at her vehicle. At the time, she reported receiving threatening messages.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances of her murder, but no arrests have been made.
Who was Pamela Mabini? – Here’s what we found about the activist
Pamela Mabini dedicated her life to helping others. In 2014, she left her corporate career to launch the Maro Foundation, an organisation focused on caring for abandoned children, the disabled, and homeless individuals.
Her work extended beyond Gqeberha. She opened two homes in Johannesburg that provided shelter for mentally handicapped individuals and children living with HIV/AIDS.
Mabini was also a finalist in The Herald’s Citizen of the Year Awards in partnership with Nelson Mandela University, recognised for her commitment to community development.
Her foundation played a key role in providing food parcels, school supplies, and hygiene products to underprivileged communities.
She also worked with victims of rape and human trafficking, offering support and assistance in accessing legal and psychological help.
Is this linked to the Omotoso case?
Mabini was a regular attendee at the trial of Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso, who is currently facing multiple charges of human trafficking, rape, and racketeering.
She stood in solidarity with survivors and had helped arrange counselling and support for women who alleged they were abused by Omotoso and his co-accused.
While police have not confirmed a link between her activism and her murder, her role as a whistleblower in the high-profile case has raised concerns about possible retaliation.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) recently announced that judgment in the Omotoso trial is expected on 2 April 2025.
Omotoso and his two co-accused face 32 charges, with the case having faced years of delays since his arrest in 2017.
Authorities have not ruled out any motives, and investigations are ongoing.
