Johannesburg – Suggestions are doing the rounds that the murder of 57-year-old Imam Muhsin Hendricks may have been prompted by his views on same-sex marriages – which were contrary to Islamic teachings.
Imam Hendricks, who ran the “Inner Circle”, a support group for LGBTQ+ Muslims, was shot dead in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, on Saturday, (15 February 2025).
Hendricks is credited with starting South Africa’s first “LGBTQ+ friendly” mosque.
He had been an activist for more than two decades, helping gay Muslims reconcile their faith with their sexual orientation.
“It is very likely a homophobic hate crime,” suggested a message on X.
Commenting on the murder on Sunday, (18 February 2025), the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) expressed “deep concern” regarding the “shocking killing”.
The MJC added: “It has been alleged that the killing may have been motivated by hatred toward Muhsin Hendricks due to his views on same-sex relationships.
“While the MJC has consistently maintained that Muhsin’s position is incompatible with Islamic teachings, we unequivocally condemn his murder and any acts of violence targeting members of the LGBTQ community or any other community.
“As members of a democratic, pluralistic society, the MJC remains steadfast in advocating for peaceful coexistence and mutual respect, even amidst divergent views.
“We extend our sympathies to the bereaved during this difficult time and pray for peace and justice to prevail.”
However, law enforcement authorities said the motive for the murder remains undetermined and is the subject of an ongoing investigation.
Recounting the events leading to the fatal shooting, the police said Imam Hendricks was in a gold-coloured VW T-Roc vehicle in Haley Place, Extension 24, Bethelsdorp, when he was attacked by assailants.
The police said a silver-coloured Hilux double cab blocked the VW T-Roc, preventing it from pulling off.
“Two unknown suspects with covered faces got out of the vehicle and started firing multiple shots at the vehicle,” the police said.
“Thereafter they fled the scene, and the driver noticed that Hendricks who was seated at the back of the vehicle was shot and killed.”
Reacting to the murder, the MJC said: “The sanctity of human life is a fundamental tenet of Islam, and the unlawful taking of life is a grave transgression, both in religious jurisprudence and within the legal framework of the Republic of South Africa.
“The MJC calls upon the South African police to conduct a thorough, impartial investigation into this matter, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable through due process.
“We urge the public to cooperate with law enforcement and to respect the legal mechanisms of the state as the investigations unfolds.
“We also express our concern regarding the persistently high levels of violent crime in our nation and appeal to the stakeholders, including community leaders, civil society, and government, to work collectively in addressing this pressing issue.”
Anyone with the information can contact Detective Colonel Dawie Schotz on 082 319 8673 or SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or report to the nearest police station.
