Taxi boss shot dead in bloody ambush: He was shot on his face, head, shoulders, and back!

Durban – A 51-year-old taxi owner was fatally shot in a brazen early morning ambush in Waterloo, north of Durban, this past Friday, sparking a police investigation into the motive behind the killing. The incident occurred at the corner of Python Road and Pricklepear Road, a location now central to the ongoing investigation.

The Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) were quick to respond to the scene. Spokesperson Prem Balram detailed the events as they unfolded for the first responders: "On arrival, Reaction Officers found members of the Verulam SAPS already in attendance. According to witnesses, the victim had been standing on the corner, waiting to be uplifted, when two unknown suspects approached on foot and opened fire."

The victim, who has not yet been formally named, was reportedly waiting to be picked up by one of his vehicles when the assailants struck. The attack, which took place just before 7am, has left the local taxi community in shock.

Balram further explained the severity of the attack, "The victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his face, head, shoulders, and back. Several 9mm spent cartridges were recovered on the scene. The motive for the shooting remains unknown. Although it is believed the suspects fled on foot, this has not been confirmed."

The KwaZulu-Natal police are treating the case with utmost seriousness. Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed that Verulam police are investigating a case of murder following the incident. "Police responded to reports of a shooting and upon arrival at the scene on Pricklepear Road, the body of the victim was found lying on the road with multiple gunshot wounds. The deceased was identified as a taxi owner," Netshiunda stated.

While investigations are still in their early stages, authorities are exploring all possible angles. "The suspects are unknown and although the motive of the killing has not yet been established, taxi related feud cannot be ruled out," Netshiunda added, indicating that the possibility of the murder being linked to taxi industry conflicts is being considered.

Initial reports suggest the victim was standing on the side of the road, waiting for a lift, when the unknown assailants opened fire. He was declared dead at the scene.

Lieutenant Colonel Paul Magwaza also confirmed that Verulam SAPS had opened a case of murder, reinforcing the commitment of the police force to bringing the perpetrators to justice.

The police are appealing to anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward and assist with the investigation. The community is urged to contact the Verulam SAPS or Crime Stoppers to provide any details that may lead to the arrest of those responsible for this heinous crime.