South Africa’s first openly gay imam murdered in suspected targeted attack, raising concerns about safety of LGBTQ+ religious leaders.

Muhsin Hendricks, 57, founder of Cape Town’s Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque, was shot dead Saturday morning near Gqeberha during what police describe as a planned ambush by two masked assailants.

Police report the attackers blocked Hendricks’ vehicle before firing multiple shots through the back window. Security footage captured the incident, which has since circulated on social media.

The Al-Ghurbaah Foundation confirmed the attack in a statement, requesting privacy for Hendricks’ family as investigations proceed.

Hendricks came out as gay in 1996 and established The Inner Circle to support LGBTQ+ Muslims. His mosque provided a rare safe space for queer Muslims in South Africa.

“This appears to be a calculated attack,” said Captain Nomvuyo Mdunge of the Eastern Cape Police. “We are exploring all possible motives and urge anyone with information to come forward.”

The killing has sparked debate about violence against LGBTQ+ individuals in South Africa, despite the country’s legal protections including same-sex marriage rights established in 2006.

LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have called for a thorough investigation into whether Hendricks’ sexuality and advocacy work played a role in his death.

“Imam Hendricks broke barriers and provided hope for countless LGBTQ+ Muslims,” said Thabo Mtetwa, director of Triangle Project, a local LGBTQ+ rights organization. “His death leaves a void in both religious and activist communities.”

Police have not yet classified the shooting as a hate crime, though investigators are examining possible connections to Hendricks’ public advocacy work.

The murder has highlighted ongoing tensions between progressive religious leaders and conservative elements within faith communities in South Africa.

South African authorities continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses. No arrests have been made as of Monday morning.