The (53) was key in the investigation that was carried out by the Special Investigative Unit (SIU).
Deokaran at the time of her death was the acting chief financial officer in the department.
Spokesperson for SIU- Kaizer Kganyago, said Deokaran was a key witness in their investigation into the PPE scandal.
“She was one of 300 witnesses who we have in the case. At this point in time we are giving the police the space they need to investigate and establish the motive for the killing.
“While we view what has happened in a very serious light and are very concerned by the murder of one of the witnesses in our case, we cannot yet attribute it to the investigation that we were conducting.”
Kganyago said the murder would not jeopardise their investigation.
Gauteng Health MEC Dr Nomathemba Mokgethi expressed the department’s shock and sadness at the tragic death of the official and sent condolences to her family and colleagues.
Mokgethi said she was at a loss for words. She added that Deokaran was an invaluable member of the provincial health department team.
The MEC said the senior official first joined the sector as an accounting clerk three decades ago, and held various positions.
She died in hospital on Monday afternoon, after being shot as she dropped her kid at school.
Investigations are on-going.
Image (MEC Health Dr Nothemba Mamokgethi shocked at the death of Deokaran).
