Vocalist shot and killed

Mr Bongani Masuku, one of Johnny Clegg’s backing vocalists, was shot and killed in Troyeville on May 17.

Lieutenant Colonel Katlego Mogale said the victim was approached by four suspects while parking his vehicle in Princes Street.

According to Lt Col Mogale, one suspect went to him and the other three went to the passenger’s side. The suspect pointed a firearm and demanded the car keys from Mr Masuku.

“A struggle ensued between them. The suspect fired several shots at him. The suspects then jumped into a minibus and fled the scene,” said Lt Col Mogale.

Mr Masuku drove himself to a nearby police station where he died. A case of murder was opened at the Jeppe SAPS.

Residents sympathised with band members and Mr Masuku’s family.

In a notice issued on its official website, the Johnny Clegg Band said it was with shock, anger and deep-felt sadness that they mourned the violent killing of their beloved Bongani Masuku, a long-standing and dedicated backing vocalist.

“Bongani first worked with Johnny Clegg and Savuka in 1992 and continued with the Johnny Clegg Band until the present time. He was a stalwart performer, a hardworking musician and a good friend. We will miss him deeply and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and all who knew him.”

Several local residents described the incident as dreadful and took to social media to express their anger and sadness.

The EXPRESS forwarded an enquiry to the Jeppe SAPS questioning the crime rate, especially with regards to robberies and hijackings in the precinct.

Warrant Officer Richard Munyai, the Jeppe SAPS communications officer, said most of the hijackings are taking place in Troyeville, Kensington and Bez Valley.

However, Jeppe SAPS “cannot say it has increased”.

“Hijackings have been reported now and then. Once a week a case of hijacking can be reported at the police station but we cannot say it has increased. Although it is a problem, we try to prevent such cases at all costs,” said W/O Munyai.

He said police officers in sector vans, support and detective services are patrolling the precinct to try and prevent these incidents.

“We deploy sectors vans on a daily basis and distribute pamphlets to sensitise people about hijackings,” said W/O Munyai.

He said most people who are hijacked are targeted while sitting in their vehicles in dark places. “Some people are hijacked while in a driveway. People should not sit in their cars especially in dark or isolated places. We appeal to residents to be vigilant to avoid being hijacked or robbed. Do not park cars in dark or isolated areas and always lock cars to avoid car theft and break-ins. Most of the hijackings are when perpetrators are specifically looking for cars, not robber, although the victims are robbed of their belongings such as wallets and cellular phones,” he said.

At the time of going to print, no arrests were made in connection with Mr Masuku’s murder.

W/O Munyai said the investigations are continuing.

@JoziReporter