In Delft, in Cape Town, a family's life was forever altered on the night of 25 May 2025. What began as an ordinary Sunday evening quickly turned into a nightmare, leaving a community reeling and a family shattered. The incident, which unfolded at approximately 8:50 PM in the N2 Gateway area, is a stark reminder of the challenges facing many communities in South Africa.
The story centers around a family returning to their home on Drakensberg Street. The father, believed to be a taxi owner, was pulling into the driveway when their lives were suddenly threatened. Two unidentified men, armed and dangerous, confronted the family, their intentions immediately clear. The suspects demanded a firearm and other belongings, setting in motion a series of events that would end in tragedy.
In the chaos that followed, shots rang out. A 19-year-old son was struck in the head, suffering a fatal wound. His 56-year-old mother was also injured, caught in the crossfire as she tried to protect her family. The father, witnessing the horrific scene unfold before him, could only watch as his son and wife were attacked. The suspects, having inflicted unimaginable harm, fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of cash, leaving behind a scene of devastation and despair.
Emergency services arrived quickly, but it was too late for the young man. He was declared dead at the scene by medical personnel, his life cut short in a senseless act. His mother was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment, her condition unknown but her future forever changed. The father, left to grapple with the loss of his son and the injury of his wife, was left to pick up the pieces of a life irrevocably broken.
Western Cape Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed the tragic event, stating that Delft police have opened cases of murder and attempted murder. According to initial reports, the father was parking his vehicle when the two armed men entered the property and confronted the family. The suspects demanded a firearm and belongings, and shots were fired, resulting in the death of the son and the injury of the mother. The motive is believed to be robbery, but the investigation is ongoing.
The community of Delft has reacted with a mix of shock and resignation. Community leader Charles George expressed his dismay, stating that such incidents are becoming increasingly common in the area. He noted that crime statistics in Delft paint a grim picture, suggesting that the community is not winning the war against crime. George also pointed out that many residents no longer report crimes due to a lack of faith in the police, further complicating efforts to address the issue.
In Musina, in Limpopo province, Lucky Siphuma, a 35-year-old taxi boss, and his colleague, Ben Morudi, were gunned down on 10 May 2025. According to police reports, Siphuma and Morudi were at a liquor outlet when unknown men opened fire on them. Siphuma, who was serving as the deputy chairman of Lancefield Taxi Association, was remembered as a true leader and a problem solver.
In Isipingo in Durban, Krish Pillay, a former taxi boss, was killed in a drive-by shooting on Wednesday, 21 May 2025. Pillay, who owned Mastermind Taxis, was found in his vehicle with multiple gunshot wounds. Twenty-six AK47 spent cartridges were found at the scene, suggesting a planned and executed attack. Pillay’s daughter described him as a simple and humble person who was loved by the community.
As the investigation into the Delft shooting continues, police are appealing to anyone with information to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111. The family of the 19-year-old victim deserves justice, and the community of Delft deserves to feel safe in their homes. The challenges are significant, but with collective effort and determination, it is possible to create a safer and more secure future for all.
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