• Elona Sombulula, 30, was shot in the head just 300 metres from his home in the Eastern Cape.

• Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi says he refused bribes and was proud to serve with honesty.

A young prosecutor who was shot dead near his home has been praised by the justice minister for refusing to be corrupted and for always doing the right thing.

Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi visited the family of Elona Sombulula, 30, in Mthentu Village near Mthatha. She was joined by the National Director of Public Prosecutions, Shamila Batohi.

Sombulula was an acting regional court prosecutor in Ngcobo. He joined the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in 2022 through the Aspirant Prosecutor Programme.

On 29 April, he was walking home from a taxi stop along the N2 when he was shot in the head, just 300 metres from his house.

Kubayi said Sombulula stood firm against corruption.

“We have others who are corrupted and bribed, but he was not that type. Instead, he stayed ethical to the end. These are people we pride ourselves on. He was a motivation to others.”

She said Sombulula was handling serious cases even though he was still young.

“There is a suspicion that one of the cases he was working on may have led to his killing. We don’t want prosecutors to be afraid to do their jobs. People must go to court and find prosecutors who are ready to work and do the right thing — but they should not have to risk their lives for it.”

Kubayi said the justice department would keep supporting prosecutors who work in dangerous conditions.

“We will not let violence scare or stop the NPA from doing its work. The ministry stands with all prosecutors who serve with honesty and courage, even when it’s not easy.”

Police confirmed that Sombulula was working on a case involving a taxi boss accused of murder and attempted murder.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana said: “Authorities are looking at all possibilities, including whether the killing was linked to his work or something personal.”

She said anyone with information should call Warrant Officer Mlilo at the Bhityi Police Station on 083 688 6571.

Pictured above: Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi during a visit to Mthatha.

Image source: Department of Justice and Constitutional Development