Police in Johannesburg have launched a murder investigation following the fatal shooting of a 35-year-old woman in the city centre on Monday, in a killing that mirrors a string of similar brazen attacks.

The incident occurred at the corner of Fox and Joubert Streets. Officers responded to reports of gunfire and, upon arrival, discovered the woman’s body with multiple gunshot wounds. She was declared dead at the scene. Dressed well, before her body was covered, beige high heels were still intact, and a litigation bag/trolley lay next to her lifeless body.

Preliminary reports indicate the victim was followed by two unknown suspects who opened fire before fleeing on foot. The motive for the attack remains unclear, and no arrests have been made.

Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko confirmed that a case of murder has been opened and appealed to the public for assistance. “Police received a complaint of a shooting incident. Upon arrival at the scene, members found the body of a 35-year-old woman who had sustained gunshot wounds and she was declared dead at the scene. Preliminary reports indicate that the deceased was allegedly followed by two unknown suspects who opened fire on her before fleeing the scene on foot. The motive for the attack will form part of investigations and no arrests have been made at this stage. We are investigating a case of murder and urge anyone with information that can assist in the investigation to contact their nearest police station or call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111,” said Sibeko.

The woman, believed to be a legal professional, was shot approximately 100 metres from the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) offices, an area typically bustling with activity.

Authorities cordoned off the scene to preserve evidence, allowing access only to forensic and investigative teams. Traffic in surrounding streets was heavily backed up for several hours as police processed the scene.

The killing has drawn comparisons to other high-profile shootings in the CBD, including the murder of popular DJ Warrick Stock, who was gunned down in a similarly brazen attack. In that case, suspects also fled on foot after opening fire in a busy public area, raising concerns about a recurring modus operandi in targeted killings within the inner city.

The similarities between the incidents have heightened fears among residents and businesses, with many questioning safety in the CBD.

On X (formerly Twitter), one user wrote: “Goolam got killed, Warras got killed and now a white woman who is a lawyer was gunned down in broad daylight in the busy streets of Johannesburg. The city has turned into a war zone. Mayor Dada Morero is always nowhere to be found. How useless can you be?”

Another user commented: “These people are ruthless! Then we have to keep quiet when MPs like CIC Juju attack good policemen like General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi?”

The reference to “CIC Juju” points to Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters.

While police have not confirmed whether the latest killing was targeted, the pattern of daylight shootings has intensified calls for increased police visibility and stronger crime prevention measures in the CBD.

Anyone with information is urged to contact their nearest police station or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.