NELSPRUIT - A driver of a vehicle was fatally shot during an alleged hijacking incident in the evening of yesterday, Saturday 20 August 2022. The incident is said to have occurred at Calcutta area near Bushbuckridge.

According to the information a group of armed suspects ambushed the driver of a silver Toyota Corolla as they attempted to hijack his vehicle. It is said that when he realised that he was about to be robbed, he drove off trying to escape from his assailants who then gave chase however it is said that shortly after his vehicle bumped into a tree. It is further alleged that the suspects shot him multiple times while he was behind the wheel before they fled the scene, leaving him to die.

Police as well as the paramedics were informed about the incident and upon arrival the man was certified dead at the scene. Police at Calcutta opened a murder case and immediately began with the investigation. Preliminary investigation has revealed that the male victim, identified as Nelson Shabangu (49) was shot after noticing one of his assailants.

Police are calling on Mr Philile Letsoalo to immediately contact the police at Calcutta as they believe that he could be of great assistance in their probe. Investigators further urge anyone who knows his whereabouts to immediately alert the police by contacting Detective Captain Prince Mokoena on 082 319 9843 or the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively members of the public can send information via MySAPS App. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.

The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has strongly condemned the senseless killing of the man and vowed that police will not rest until all suspects are put behind bars.

Source: South African Police Service