A manhunt is underway following the brutal murder of a 37-year-old e-hailing driver from Phoenix, Tiven Ganesh, who was gunned in Cornubia on Tuesday night after an alleged hijacking incident.
Ganesh’s damaged vehicle, a white VW sedan, was found in Ndwedwe, with live and dummy ammunition lying abandoned next to the hijacked car. Captain Henry Kisten, Verulam SAPS communications officer, said a case of murder has been opened for investigation.
He said: “A murder docket is being investigated by Verulam SAPS after the deceased was found at the Cornubia residential area by residents. Residents of the area contacted the police after discovering a man who was unresponsive. The deceased died of gunshot wounds. The motive for the killing is unknown. The suspects are also unknown at this stage.”
Members of private security company, Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa), were among the first responders and confirmed that the Ganesh was already unresponsive at the time of their arrival. Rusa spokesperson, Prem Balram, said Reaction Officers and medics arrived on scene at approximately 9.41pm and located the victim on a grass verge next to the road.
“The 37-year-old e-hailing driver was shot multiple times in Cornubia. Upon examination, he was found to have sustained seven gunshot wounds to his body and head which resulted in his demise. According to residents, the deceased was a driver for an e-hailing company. His wallet with an undisclosed amount of cash was recovered in his possession. Several spent 9mm cartridges were also located on scene,” said Balram.
Speculation surrounding the murder evoked emotions of several Facebook users as hundreds of comments were posted on the social media platform. Lorraine Samusa Mlanduli, said: “Premeditated murder! Otherwise the wallet would not have been in his possession! It’s tragic, no one is safe anymore, it doesn’t matter where you are or who you are. Condolences to the family. It’s sad that at such a young age he lost his life trying to make an honest living.”
Another comment by Hassina Ismail read: “RIP, condolences to the family. May God comfort you’ll at this time. May he send his angels to encamp around your house and souls. God grant this family strength, love and grace, Heaven has gained an angel. Stay strong”. Dilon Kalijee posted: “Government needs to pull all taxi permits away and close taxis down. Since these taxi owners came about, there have been too many deaths of drivers.”
When approached, the grieving family declined to comment regarding the incident as they were still dealing with the trauma and processing the loss of the young father. Ganesh was laid to rest of Saturday. The investigation into his murder is still ongoing, anyone with information can contact, 032 541 5242 or CrimeStop 08600 10111.
