Carte Blanche Producer Johann Botha Killed in Joburg Armed Robbery

Carte Blanche producer and former 50/50 presenter, Johann Botha, has been tragically shot and killed during an armed robbery at a bar/restaurant in Johannesburg. The bar owner Werner ‘Swazi’ Perchtold was also killed.

The shocking incident occurred on Wednesday evening, at the Zebra House Inn in Gauteng’s Maboneng district.

According to police spokesperson, Captain Kay Makhubele, three men and a woman entered a restaurant in Joburg and bought some food… before pointing their firearms at the Perchtold. Both Perchtold and Botha, who were apparently best friends, were shot in their upper body. The suspects allegedly stole two pistols and cash. No arrests have yet been made.

Tributes have been pouring in for the popular TV and radio personality, who also worked on Projek Aardwolf… and was an opera singer.

George Mazakaris, Carte Blanche’s executive producer, said: “Johann Botha was a remarkable highly experienced television producer and presenter. He was an immensely invaluable member of the Carte Blanche team and it is a considerable loss. We’re devastated.”

50/50 said: “Johann’s exuberant energy on camera and investigative journalistic insight made him a champion for the environment and his love for wildlife has seen him lauded with numerous environmental awards. The environment, the animals, and his close friends and family have lost a truly courageous human being, who made a tremendous difference to the world, that will be felt still for many years to come.”

Stroop rhino documentary filmmaker and presenter, Bonné de Bod‏, said: “#JohannBotha inspired me to take a similar journey and I will forever be grateful. Thank-you for standing up for the voiceless. RIP Johann.”

‘Swazi’ Perchtold was also very popular amongst locals. According to blogger 2Summers, he had told her he was originally from Austria, and after spending time in Swaziland he changed his name to Swazi to differentiate himself from all the other Werners.