The Mothilal family is mourning the tragic death of 27-year-old Jonah Mothilal, who was killed by a man he considered a close friend, Mohamed Patel. The incident unfolded on Sunday, 7 July 2024, following a trip Jonah made to Johannesburg with Patel to purchase a vehicle.
Jonah’s father, Pastor Sam Mothilal, recounted that Jonah left for Johannesburg on Saturday with Patel to view and potentially buy a car. Although Jonah initially communicated that the car had some faults and he would not be purchasing it, he planned to return to Newcastle later that day.
When Jonah did not return home by the expected time, Pastor Mothilal grew concerned and contacted Patel. Patel claimed Jonah decided to buy a different vehicle in Volksrust and then turned back to retrieve a forgotten bag. Patel said he returned home while Jonah went back to Volksrust.
Pastor Mothilal filed a missing person’s report but was advised to wait 24 hours. After an exhaustive search, including stops at various locations between Volksrust and Newcastle, Pastor Mothilal was advised to close Jonah’s bank accounts. Later, police informed him that a body matching Jonah’s description had been found near Charlestown, not far from Volksrust.
The police confirmed the deceased was Jonah Mothilal, who had been shot at point-blank range in the back of his head. Devastated, Pastor Mothilal returned home to break the news to his family. Patel later visited the Mothilal household, offering condolences and financial assistance for the funeral.
As the investigation progressed, inconsistencies in Patel's account led to his arrest. He is now charged with Jonah Mothilal’s murder, as confirmed by Newcastle SAPS station commander Brigadier Naidoo.
Patel and Jonah had been friends for over 12 years, sharing many experiences together. The revelation of Patel’s involvement has left the Mothilal family in shock. Patel is set to appear in Newcastle Court on Thursday, 1 August 2024, for a bail application, which the Mothilal family opposes.
Pastor Mothilal described Jonah as a kind-hearted and helpful individual, deeply loved by his family. He expressed gratitude for the support from the Global Outreach Missions, Cutting Edge Ministries, the Newcastle community, and SAPS during this difficult time.