Durban — Two taxi bosses were gunned down in a drive-by shooting in KwaZulu-Natal on Monday morning.
Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa) spokesperson Prem Balram said they were shot dead in Area 1 in Mhlasini, Verulam.
Balram said residents in the area contacted Rusa after hearing a volley of shots. Some callers confirmed two people were shot but were unable to confirm the extent of their injuries.
He said Rusa reaction officers and paramedics were immediately dispatched and discovered the bodies of two men on the side of the road.
“They sustained multiple gunshot wounds and were declared deceased by medics,” Balram said.
“According to witnesses, the deceased were taxi owners. They were talking to each other at the Mhlasini taxi rank when the occupants of a white Ford Ranger opened fire on them.”
Balram added the scene was still active around 8am and an investigation into the double murder was under way.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Nqobile Gwala said charges of murder were being investigated by Verulam SAPS.
“It is alleged that this morning at 7am, two men aged 41 and 46 were shot and killed while at a taxi rank at Hazelmere Drive in Mhlasini, Verulam. The suspect took two bags from the victims and fled the scene in a getaway vehicle,” Gwala said.
Commenting on the incident on Facebook, Cara Marcia Arnold Hassen said: “Sincere condolences to the bereaved families. Very sad way to die but seems like that’s how all taxi bosses die. It’s a fight for survival. We live in very cruel times. To anyone contemplating starting a taxi or drug business, think wisely before you do. That is no way for your kids to continue your legacy, it’s a wipe-out. You always have to be looking over your shoulder. And what about sleeping at night?”
Sanele Khayelihle Msweli said: “I would rather be poor than own a taxi these days. May their souls rest in peace. Praying for their families and kids that have lost their loved ones because of greed.”
Nancy Moodley said: “It is so dangerous to own taxis today, your life is in danger. God deal with the wicked evil ones. It is so sad, we are in festive season and they had to die like this. So sorry for their loved ones. RIP beautiful souls, my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. Pray God’s comfort and peace over you’ll at this sad time.”
Daily News