Justice was finally served more than six and a half years after an Uber driver was shot and killed during a road rage incident in Merebank.
The 35-year-old accused was convicted and sentenced for the murder, which occurred in the vicinity of Basil February Road on 13 December 2019.
Wentworth SAPS spokesperson Captain M.P. Gumede said the incident began when the accused became involved in an altercation with an Uber driver who was transporting passengers.
“The incident was viewed as road rage between the two drivers as both drivers were jamming and shouting at each other. During the altercation, both the accused and the Uber driver alighted from the vehicles and engaged in a fist fight,” said Gumede.
According to Gumede, the accused then produced his personal firearm. The Uber driver attempted to flee and took cover behind a bridge pillar.
“The accused pulled out a personal firearm and the deceased tried to flee taking cover behind a bridge pillar. At that point, the accused fired a warning shot into the ground which was followed by another shot at the deceased.
“The police officers who were on routine patrol not far away from the scene, rushed after hearing gunshots and disarmed the suspect,” he added.
The suspect was arrested at the scene and the firearm was seized. The victim was transported to Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital with a gunshot wound but later succumbed to his injuries.
The case was assigned to Wentworth SAPS Detective Sergeant B M Zulu, who led the investigation.
“The detective wasted no time and the accused was found guilty and convicted of murder, other counts and sentenced to direct imprisonment. The accused is serving his sentence in Westville Prison with 12 years’ imprisonment, of which half is suspended for five years.
Three years were imposed for handling a firearm whilst under the influence of alcohol and he was declared unfit to possess a firearm and ammunition,” said Gumede.
He added that the State commended all witnesses who testified during the trial and praised the investigating officer for working closely with the prosecution team to secure justice for the deceased and his family.
Wentworth SAPS Station Commander Colonel Mtshali and station management also commended Detective Sergeant Zulu for his professionalism, dedication and investigative skills in bringing the matter to a successful conclusion.
