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South Africa: Student caught in crossfire one of three dead

South Africa: Student caught in crossfire one of three dead

Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Onke Ngcuka
Published on 2024-02-29 23:12:52

The tragic incident that occurred in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, on Thursday afternoon, 29 February, left the community in shock and devastation. Two taxi businessmen were shot and killed, with one of the victims hanging from the back window of a BMW 320, blood dripping from his head. The other victim, a taxi rank manager, was also found dead in the car. Two students traveling in a bus were caught in the crossfire, resulting in one student losing their life on the scene.

The incident took place opposite the Wits Art Museum, where one of the victims had left the vehicle to fetch a colleague at the nearby Braamfontein Total Garage. The shooting occurred shortly after the person exited the vehicle, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. The University of Johannesburg confirmed that one of the deceased students was an 18-year-old second-year student at the institution, traveling from campus to the Johannesburg city center.

Witnesses reported that the two shooters were in a white Toyota Fortuner with Limpopo registration plates. Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi stated that the motive behind the shooting is still under investigation, with a case of murder and attempted murder opened. The police are yet to make any arrests in connection with the incident.

The community, especially the family of one of the deceased, was overwhelmed with grief at the scene. The wife of one of the victims collapsed in anguish, crying inconsolably as she relived the tragic loss of her husband. The family, including a young boy who appeared to be the victim’s son, was shattered by the events and deeply mourned their loss.

Despite the tragedy, some details remain unclear, as a taxi owner affiliated with the deceased mentioned that there were no disputes within the association that could have led to such violence. The taxi wars, which have plagued the industry in the past, were believed to be a thing of the past, raising questions about the motive behind the shooting.

As the investigation continues, anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the authorities. The University of the Witwatersrand has offered counseling services to students affected by the shooting, urging them to seek support and assistance during this difficult time.

The brazen act of violence in Braamfontein serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the impact of such senseless acts on families and communities. It is a call for unity and cooperation in the face of tragedy, as the community mourns the loss of lives and seeks justice for the victims.

Read the original article on Daily Maverick

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