Moulana Mustaqeem Wanza, Cape Town Priest, Killed in Shooting During Ramadan

Cape Town, South Africa – Moulana Mustaqeem Wanza, a respected religious leader from Salaamudien Masjid in Lentegeur, was fatally shot on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, shortly after leading evening prayers marking the start of Ramadan. The incident has deeply saddened the Muslim community in the Western Cape.

Details of the Shooting

According to Lentegeur police, officers responded to reports of a shooting at approximately 10:55 PM on Candy Tuff Street. Upon arrival, they discovered the body of a man lying in the street, covered with a blanket. Constable Navon Van Houten stated that the victim was believed to be a priest at the local mosque and was reportedly leaving the mosque when the shooting occurred. Plainsman reports that the motive for the shooting remains under investigation.

Community Reaction and Condemnation

Michael Jacobs, chairperson of the Lentegeur Community Police Forum, strongly condemned the killing, calling it “totally unacceptable.” He urged community members to come forward with any information that could assist the police in identifying those responsible. Jacobs emphasized Moulana Wanza’s role as a community leader and positive role model, stating, “The perpetrators must be brought to book, and justice must be served.” Plainsman

The Darul Ulama Association in the Western Cape confirmed Wanza’s death and expressed the community’s deep sorrow. They noted that he had led Salatul Taraweeh prayers at Salaamudien Masjid earlier that evening. Facebook and Instagram sources confirm the widespread grief.

Acting imam for Ramadan, Ustadh Muhsin Ahmad Sulaiman, stated that Salaamudien Masjid was in shock following the news of Moulana Wanza’s death. The mosque extended its condolences to his family and the broader community. Authorities urged the community to refrain from speculation and sharing unverified information on social media, requesting prayers and support for the bereaved family.

Ongoing Investigation

Police are actively investigating the incident and have requested anyone with information to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile application. Plainsman reports that detectives can be reached at 072 862 0185.

People Against Gangsterism and Drugs (Pagad) national coordinator Haroon Orrie indicated that the organization would engage with community structures and authorities in response to the shooting, noting that criminal activity often continues during the sacred month of Ramadan. Plainsman