South African authorities are intensifying their search for the suspects involved in the fatal shooting of Muhsin Hendricks, the world’s first openly gay imam.
The 57-year-old was killed in broad daylight in Gqeberha on Saturday, as captured by CCTV footage showing a hooded figure firing shots through his car window.
Hendricks was known for advocating for LGBTQ+ Muslims and creating safe spaces for marginalized individuals within the Islamic faith.
While an investigation is underway, it is still too early to confirm if the killing was a hate crime, according to Deputy Justice Minister Andries Nel. Hendricks’ death has shocked both the LGBTQ+ community and the broader public.
Various Muslim organizations condemned the act, emphasizing the need for peaceful coexistence despite differing beliefs.
