Openly gay imam Moegsien Hendricks killed in Eastern Cape

The openly gay Cape Town imam, Moegsien Hendricks, was tragically shot and killed in Gqeberha on Saturday morning. Hendricks, known for his work in supporting LGBTQI+ Muslims, had traveled to the Eastern Cape to officiate a marriage ceremony for a lesbian couple in Bethelsdorp.

Refusal of Marriage by Local Religious Leaders

According to Facebook user Rif’at Brower, the local community and imams in Port Elizabeth (PE) had refused to marry the couple, including Sheikh Mukhtar, who publicly stated that no one in the area would perform the ceremony.

The couple ultimately sought the services of Hendricks, who had long been an advocate for LGBTQI+ rights within the Muslim community. Hendricks agreed to officiate the marriage.

“Moegsien was shot and killed at the wedding,” Brower wrote, expressing harsh condemnation of Hendricks and the ceremony.

Details of the Shooting

Police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg confirmed that authorities are investigating the motive for the killing.

“The police are seeking information to solve a murder case that was reported at SAPS Bethelsdorp following a shooting incident that took place at Extension 24, Bethelsdorp, early on Saturday, 15 February 2025,” she said.

Reports indicate that at around 10 a.m., Hendricks and a driver were inside a gold-colored VW T-Roc in Haley Place, Extension 24, Bethelsdorp, when a silver-colored Hilux double cab stopped in front of their vehicle, blocking them from leaving.

“Two unknown suspects with covered faces exited the Hilux and began firing multiple shots at the vehicle,” Janse van Rensburg explained. “The driver realized that Hendricks, who was seated at the back of the vehicle, had been fatally shot.”

The suspects fled the scene, and Hendricks was pronounced dead on-site.

Appeal for Information

Police have urged anyone with information to come forward to assist with the investigation. Detective Colonel Dawie Schotz can be contacted at 082 319 8673, or information can be reported anonymously to the SAPS Crime Stop number at 08600 10111.

“The motive for the murder is unknown and forms part of the ongoing investigation,” Captain Janse van Rensburg added.

Trailblazer for LGBTQI+ Muslims

Hendricks made history in 1996 by becoming the world’s first openly gay imam. He led the Al-Ghurbaah (the strangers) Foundation, based in Wynberg, Cape Town, which serves as a support system for LGBTQI+ Muslims navigating the intersection of their faith and s.e.xuality.

The foundation provides counseling, community programs, and religious services tailored to the needs of queer Muslims.

Hendricks had been a vocal advocate for LGBTQI+ rights within conservative religious circles. His activism often drew backlash, but he remained steadfast in his mission to create a safe space for marginalized Muslims.

Last Message Shared on Social Media

Just a month before his death, on January 17, Hendricks posted a video on social media singing a song in Arabic that translates to, “You won’t be able to forget me.” The post, now seen as poignant by many, has been shared widely as a tribute to his life and legacy.

Community Reactions

The murder of Hendricks has sparked a mix of mourning, outrage, and concern from various quarters. Supporters of Hendricks and the LGBTQI+ community have called for justice and expressed fears over rising violence targeting marginalized groups in South Africa.

Many have taken to social media to honor Hendricks for his courage and contributions to the LGBTQI+ Muslim community. Others have condemned the circumstances surrounding his death, emphasizing the need for greater tolerance and understanding within religious communities.

Ongoing Investigation

As police work to uncover the motive and identify the suspects, Hendricks’ death leaves a void in the lives of those he supported through his foundation. His life’s mission to promote inclusivity, acceptance, and love will be remembered by many, even as his tragic death highlights the challenges faced by LGBTQI+ advocates in conservative religious contexts.

Authorities continue to seek any leads that could bring justice for Hendricks and those affected by this senseless act of violence.