DELMAS – A 51-year-old Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) member who was reported missing earlier this month has been found dead in Delmas, Mpumalanga, as police investigate his murder.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed in a statement issued on Thursday, 30 July 2026, that members of the Gauteng Political Killings Task Team discovered the body of Aaron Makola, who was reported missing in Bronkhorstspruit on 10 July 2026.
According to police, Makola's vehicle was found abandoned on 11 July, a day after he disappeared.
The Gauteng Political Killings Task Team took over the investigation on 20 July after engaging with Makola's family and gathering crucial information relating to his disappearance.
Following an extensive investigation, officers traced Makola's body to a bush in Delmas on Thursday, 30 July. Preliminary investigations indicate that he had been shot and killed before his body was dumped at the scene.
His family has since positively identified his remains.
SAPS National Spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said investigators were making significant progress in the case.
"An extensive investigation led members of the Gauteng Political Killings Task Team to Delmas on Thursday, 30 July 2026, where the EFF member was tragically found. Preliminary investigations indicate that he had been shot and killed before his body was dumped in a bush," Mathe said.
She said investigations were at an advanced stage to identify and arrest those responsible for the murder, including both the perpetrators and anyone who may have orchestrated the crime.
"The Gauteng Political Killings Task Team is continuing its investigation to establish the motive behind the murder."
No arrests had been made at the time of publication, and police had not disclosed a motive. Investigations are continuing.
