Asia

World Cup Official Shot Dead

A South African whistleblower who alerted officials to alleged corruption in the building of a World Cup stadium has been shot dead by an unknown gunman.

Jan 6, 2009 9:09:34 AM

World Cup 2010 official logo

South Africa's ability to remain hosts of the 2010 World Cup suffered a further setback this week as it has been revealed that the Jimmy Mohlala - a committee member for the tournament - was murdered in his home in the northeastern city of Nelspruit.

A local government spokesperson is quoted to have said: "He was shot dead at his home in Nelspruit yesterday evening."

The Mbombela Local Council Municipality also issued a statement.

"He was shot by two unknown men who were wearing balaclavas...the gunmen had been lying in wait outside the Mohlala home in an unmarked vehicle," it said.

A further killing took place on Sunday, in the same place, when the unknown assassins also shot, and wounded, Mohlala's son, before they fled the scene.

Mbombela stadium holds a capacity of 46,000, is scheduled for completion later in they, and is one of ten venues for the World Cup.

Mohlala had a long background in football administration, and was the former vice president of South Africa's Football Association, as well as being the head for the council of the municipality of Mbombela.

Mohlala's claims over alleged wrongdoing and corruption will instigate investions into other corruptions, including the manipulation of tenders in construction contracts, according to SAPA news.

--Alan Dawson, Goal.com