Muhsin Hendricks, who was considered as the world's “first openly gay imam”, was shot dead close to Gqeberha city in South Africa on Saturday.

“Two unknown suspects with covered faces got out of the vehicle and started firing multiple shots at the vehicle,” the Eastern Cape force said in a statement as quoted by The Guardian.

“Thereafter they fled the scene, and the driver noticed that Hendricks, who was seated at the back of the vehicle was shot and killed," the force said.

The imam ran a mosque which acted as a safe haven for  gay and other marginalised Muslims.

The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association said the death of the imam, who came out as gay in 1996, left the organisation shocked.

“The ILGA World family is in deep shock at the news of the murder of Muhsin Hendricks, and calls on authorities to thoroughly investigate what we fear may be a hate crime”, said Julia Ehrt, executive director at ILGA World.

“He supported and mentored so many people in South Africa and around the world in their journey to reconcile with their faith, and his life has been a testament to the healing that solidarity across communities can bring in everyone’s lives. Our condolences go out to all who have been touched by his presence in all these years," Julia Ehrt said.

The imam recently founded the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation in Cape Town, where he served as executive director, and was also the administrator of the Compassion-centred Islam (CCI Network) for inclusive scholars and religious leaders.

Social media reacts

Several social media users expressed their sadness over the death of the imam.

One Suntosh Pillay wrote on X: "I am so devastated to hear of the murder of Imam Muhsin Hendricks, gunned down today in Gqeberha."

"It is very likely a homophobic hate crime. Hendricks (57) ran the Inner Circle, South Africa's first support group for LGBTQ+ Muslims. My condolences to his loved ones," he said.

Another Marc said: " Rest In Peace Muhsin Hendricks. You did not deserve to be shot like an animal. No Human Being does."