Members of the Shallcross Community Policing Forum (SCPF) are urging residents to be extra vigilant after a 56-year-old man was killed during a home invasion in Granada Street on Thursday morning.
Father of two, Vasu Ravi Chetty, was allegedly accosted by armed robbers who pounced on him after they had jumped over the boundary fence of his home and attacked him. He died from stab wounds. SCPF Chairperson, Mahendra Lillkan, said the modus operandi has been seen before in the Shallcross area and urges residents to be extra vigilant. The family said the fatal home invasion happened between 5am and 6am. “Three unknown males forced their way into our home. While they were ransacking our home, my dad was stabbed. He succumbed to his injuries shortly after.” According to Lillkan, the three suspects confronted Chetty when he opened the door. We have experienced this modus operandi previously and we ask residents to please be extra vigilant when leaving or arriving home. Please ensure that your yard is well lit to ensure good visibility,” he said.
Lillkan added that residents should check if there are people lurking around and to delay your exit or entrance to your property if necessary when suspicious people are spotted. Chetty’s daughter said the family was grateful that the investigation is in the hands of law enforcement authorities. “We are waiting for the law to take its course and for justice to be served on the perpetrators. We, as a family, are encouraged by the current community policing structures and look forward to further community collaboration, upliftment and security that these structures bring,” she said. Chetty was described as a dedicated family man and an active member of community policing in his area, who will be remembered for his efforts in the fight against crime. “The SAPS is busy with the investigation and we pray for a speedy arrest. The Shallcross patrollers will continue with their daily voluntary patrol through the area, however, with the limited number of volunteers and resources, it’s difficult to cover the whole area. We encourage those who are able to, to join us in trying to keep our community free from criminal elements. The Shallcross CPF extends sincere condolences to the loved ones of Ravi Chetty,” added Lillkan. To join the local CPF or be a part of the patrol team, call 083-495-1611.
