Mystery surrounds assassination of self-defence expert

Self-defence instructor, Anthony Segal shared a poignant message on Facebook two days before he was murdered: “Life happens while you’re busy making plans, but with IDefend Krav Maga, you’re always prepared to face the unexpected and come out stronger.”

The 52-year-old father of two was ambushed by several criminals, who shot him multiple times before speeding off in a white Mercedes. The brazen attack occurred outside the Wesleyan Church Hall in Craighall on Wednesday, 4 December 2024, at around 14:00.

The irony of Segal’s death has left a community in shock, while the motive behind the brutal killing remains a mystery. Despite his hyper-vigilance, Segal was ultimately unable to escape the violence he spent his life teaching others to avoid.

The attack was swift and calculated. According to police, Segal was leaving a church hall when the gunmen struck. By the time emergency services arrived, Segal was already lifeless.

Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo told the SA Jewish Report, “He was at Craighall Park in Johannesburg, consulting a client on 4 December, at approximately 13:30 . When he left the premises approaching his vehicle, he was gunned down by a passing vehicle. He was shot several times.”

He said the motive for the killing couldn’t be confirmed at this stage. “Police have opened a case of murder and are on the lookout for suspects,” said Masondo.

Segal devoted his life to teaching vigilance and self-defence, yet had no chance to defend himself in his final moments. His long-term partner, Melissa Cambier, received a frantic call to come to the scene. “I flew there. I knew it was bad, but I just needed to see what was going on and make sure he knew I was there for him in the end,” she said.

For Cambier, the circumstances of Segal’s death are incomprehensible. “Anthony was always super aware of his surroundings – he taught this, he was threat-aware. If he was going to die, it wasn’t like this, he was almost invincible.” She described feeling a “mix of emotions: anger, sadness, hurt, and shock”, saying, “There are many rumours, but nothing I hear will change how I feel about him and the life we shared together.”

Segal’s life revolved around the art of Krav Maga, a self-defence discipline he used to teach people to protect themselves against violence. He was particularly passionate about combating gender-based violence, offering specialised training sessions to empower individuals and foster a culture of safety.

Segal’s death hasn’t only devastated those closest to him, it has left a community grappling with the loss of a man who spent his life empowering others.

“Anthony was community-driven, popular, well-liked, friendly, and fun-loving,” Cambier said. “He enjoyed the outdoors and socialising with friends.”

His passion extended beyond adults. Segal devoted much of his time to empowering children, offering family-friendly self-defence classes and working with kids in underprivileged schools. Larry Marks, a long-time friend, noted that Segal’s earlier volunteer work with the Community Security Organisation (CSO) helped shape his career.

“His work at the CSO awakened in him a passion for self-defence, which led to him going into that world in a professional capacity,” Marks said. “He had a passion for empowering kids to defend themselves against schoolyard bullies, and became a sort of role model to many kids and teens in underprivileged schools by instilling confidence in them through self-defence. This line of work really resonated with him.”

As police continue their investigation, the motive for Segal’s killing remains unclear. The precision of the attack suggests it was a planned, deliberate act, but why someone would want Segal dead is unknown.

Some speculate it may have been an orchestrated attack carried out at the behest of someone with a personal vendetta or desire to have him silenced over information he may have become privy to.

“There is much speculation, but what the family needs is the truth and closure,” said Cambier.

Sean Jammy, deputy chief executive of Community Active Protection, where Segal had previously worked, said, “Anthony was an ex-colleague of ours, and we feel the loss quite personally. He was a loyal, kind, and giving human being. We are actively working the case.”

Police sources have indicated that the investigation is progressing, and there’s optimism that arrests will be made soon. For now, the details remain shrouded in speculation.

Segal’s murder is emblematic of a troubling rise in targeted assassinations in South Africa. Execution-style killings have become alarmingly common, with victims ranging from politicians to businesspeople and security professionals.

Experts point to the intersection of organised crime, political corruption, and a lack of accountability as driving this trend. “These aren’t random acts of violence, they are calculated hits meant to send a message or settle a score,” said a security analyst.

Friends, colleagues, and students have shared heartfelt tributes to Segal, painting a picture of a “good guy” whose life was dedicated to making others feel safe.

“Anthony was more than an instructor, he was a mentor and friend to his students,” said Marks. “He had this ability to connect with people and make them feel stronger and more confident. He made a lasting impact on many lives.”

The Krav Maga & CQC Academy, where Segal earned his second dan black belt, released a statement in his honour, saying “Anthony’s legacy of strength, resilience, and generosity will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory continue to inspire us all.”

While the motive for his murder remains a mystery, what’s clear is the profound loss felt by all who knew him. Segal’s life, though tragically cut short, remains an inspiration to many, and his memory will continue to empower others for years to come.

Police are appealing to anyone who might have information that can help in the investigation or assist in apprehending the suspects to call the nearest police station or call crime stop on 0860 010 111.

Segal is survived by his mother, Gail Segal, sister, Maxine Radus brother, Gary Segal and his sons, Joshua and Gilad.