By Nikita Chiniah
A Welbedacht mother’s birthday celebrations will never be the same after she tragically lost her only son who was shot dead on her birthday, after he was accused of stealing a tap and drill.
The deceased, Thamsanqa Latha known as Noqonqela (20) was born and raised in KwaMashu. He moved in with his mother in Welbedacht East, eight years ago.
His aunt, Andile Myeza said that he lived with his mum, sister and nephew and loved all of them to bits. “It was my sister’s birthday, on 11 July at around 7:30am. The suspect, who is known to the family as he lives on the same street, accused my nephew of stealing items. Before my nephew could defend himself, he was shot in the head at close range. We want justice for my nephew who had his whole life ahead of him. He was young and we had great expectations from him. We want justice to prevail for what has happened to my nephew. My sister is traumatised and severely shocked that she lost her son in a blink of an eye. We have heard rumours that my nephew was the third person killed by this man who always gets away with his misdeeds. We hope and pray that the law plays its role as we are losing so many youngsters and their accused walks freely,” she said.
Myeza described her nephew as a loving and caring person. “He cared for others and was helpful in the house, especially with the children in his family. He loved taking care of them,” she said.
Communications officer of Chatsworth SAPS, Captain Cheryl Pillay said, on 11 July, Chatsworth Serious and Violent Crimes Unit arrested a 39-year-old suspect for murder.
“It is alleged that an altercation occurred near the informal settlement in Montford, Chatsworth where a 20-year-old victim was shot. The victim who sustained a gunshot wound to the head succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The black pistol which belongs to the accused was seized by police and will be taken for ballistic testing,” said Cpt Pillay.
She added that on 12 July, the accused appeared at the Chatsworth Magistrate’s Court where he was granted bail. “The accused will reappear in court on 31 August,” she said.
