Muhsin Hendricks, the Muslim cleric who became popular after becoming the world’s first “openly gay” Imam, has been assassinated in South Africa.
According to reports, Muhsin Hendricks, age 57, had provided a mosque in Cape Town as a safe space for most Muslims who were involved in the LGBTQ community.
He was traveling in a vehicle with another person when a car blocked them and shots were fired. This happened on the exit of Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth.
The police statement reads, “Two unknown suspects with covered faces got out of the vehicle and started firing multiple shots at the vehicle. Thereafter, they fled the scene, and the driver noticed that Hendricks, who was seated at the back of the vehicle, was shot and killed.”
Other reports state that the shooting happened after he had officiated a lesbian wedding.
Security footage circulating on social media provides a chilling account of the attack. A car intentionally blocked the vehicle Hendricks was in as it pulled away from the curb. Police report that Hendricks was seated in the back seat.
The CCTV footage captures the attack from one angle, revealing an assailant exiting the blocking car, rushing to the targeted vehicle, and firing multiple shots through the rear passenger window where Muhsin Hendricks was.
Hendricks made headlines in 1996 when he publicly came out as gay, a revelation that sent shockwaves through the broader Muslim community in Cape Town and beyond.
That same year, Muhsin Hendricks founded The Inner Circle, an organization dedicated to offering support and a safe haven for queer Muslims striving to harmonize their faith with their sexuality.
Later, he established the inclusive Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque, furthering his mission of acceptance and inclusion.
Join Our Social Media Channels:
WhatsApp: NaijaEyes
Facebook: NaijaEyes
Twitter: NaijaEyes
Instagram: NaijaEyes
TikTok: NaijaEyes
