Social media figure Goolam Vawda found dead

Notorious information peddler Goolam Mohammed Suliman Vawda, who operated on X under the handle @Goolammv, has been found dead in a hotel in Johannesburg.

Investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death are currently under way. Sources close to the probe told The Star that Vawda had earlier this week been served with court papers relating to allegations of fraud, cyberbullying, hate speech and the publication of defamatory content targeting politicians, media personalities and other individuals.

Vawda was unmasked in 2024 by Independent Media as the individual behind the controversial @Goolammv account. He was accused of being a tenderpreneur and political influencer with alleged links to senior African National Congress (ANC) officials, as well as a history of shifting political loyalties.

He was widely described as the operator of a so-called "sock puppet" account, allegedly used to manipulate political narratives on social media. His online persona was said to have switched support from former president Jacob Zuma to President Cyril Ramaphosa, and later aligned with the DA/ANC-led Government of National Unity (GNU).

Previous investigations alleged that Vawda had access to sensitive government information, including details of ministerial appointments, and that his posts were amplified through coordinated bot networks. Reports also linked him to suspected fraudulent tender activities, allegations he consistently denied.

Authorities have not released further details regarding the cause of death, and no official statement has yet been issued by the police.

The matter remains a developing story.