Drive-by shooting: KZN taxi boss killed, neighbour injured

A 32-year-old taxi owner was shot dead, while his neighbour managed to escape with only minor injuries following a drive-by shooting in Verulam, KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday.

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ANOTHER TAXI WAR RELATED MURDER

According to News24, the taxi owner and his neighbour were in a car at an intersection on Jabu Ngcobo Road, opposite Trenance Park Phase 1 in Verulam, when a Toyota Etios reportedly pulled up next to their vehicle.

“It’s alleged that one suspect alighted and fired several shots at the victims using a rifle,” said police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Robert Netshiunda.

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Private security company Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa) said they had received multiple calls for assistance on Saturday evening.

Upon their arrival at the scene, they found the bullet-riddled body of the taxi owner lying next to an Isuzu bakkie.

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PASSENGER SURVIVES WITH MINOR INJURIES IN DRIVE-BY SHOOTING, DECEASED TRIED TO FLEE

Rusa spokesperson Prem Balram said the taxi boss had attempted to flee on foot, but collapsed due to the extent of his injuries.

“His passenger sustained minor injuries. The deceased was confirmed to be a taxi boss who operated in Mawothi,” said Balram.

A total of 21 spent rifle cartridges and three live rounds of ammunition were recovered at the scene.

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It is said that the suspects reportedly fled in an unknown direction. The police have opened a case of murder and attempted murder.

“The motive of the shooting is unknown, however taxi-related violence cannot be ruled out. Investigations are under way,” added Netshiunda.

This article was originally published by Cwenga Maqhubela.