Thabiso Maphike, a well-known businessman and community leader in Bophelong, was tragically gunned down on Friday, 8 November, while unloading stock at his shop in Muvhango, Vaal. Maphike, recognized for his efforts to empower local entrepreneurs and his campaign against foreign-owned spaza shops, was shot multiple times by gunmen who had posed as customers. His death has shocked the community, where he was a revered figure.
Maphike had led a successful initiative to close down foreign-run spaza shops in Bophelong, which he believed were hurting the local economy. His actions, which began in October 2023, earned him both admiration and anger, particularly from foreign nationals who operated the shops. Maphike had previously survived a shooting in January 2024, where he was shot more than 14 times, but his resolve remained strong.
His son, Teboho Khumalo, has vowed to continue his father’s legacy. “My dad fought for the township economy and ensured local businesses thrived,” Khumalo said. He revealed that Maphike had received several death threats for his anti-spaza shop campaign but remained steadfast, determined to secure a better future for his children and the next generation of township entrepreneurs.
The Gauteng police have opened a murder investigation following the shooting. Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. Maphike’s death has left a profound impact on the Bophelong community, and his commitment to promoting local businesses and economic empowerment will be remembered by those he inspired.
