Well-wishes continue to stream in for the 46-year-old on-duty electrician Dewaal Smit of Comet, who was ambushed, shot, wounded and robbed of his belongings at a substation in Pretoria Road, Dayanglen, on July 8.
According to the SAPS Ekurhuleni district communication officer Captain Neldah Sekgobela, Smit and a female colleague were trying to locate a fault that caused multiple power outages in Morganridge, Dayanglen and other western parts of Boksburg.
Preliminary investigation shows an armed robber shot Smit before disarming him and stealing his cellphone and wallet.
The bullet went through his body, missing his lung.
Sekgobela explained the shooting happened while Smit was speaking to his colleague on the phone.
She suspected something was amiss when Smit asked her for help, saying he was under attack. She immediately reported the matter to management and the police, who rushed to the scene.
When the paramedics arrived, they took Smit to the Linmed Hospital in Benoni by ambulance before being transferred to a facility in Joburg for treatment for the gunshot wound.
The police are investigating a case of attempted murder and armed robbery. They have made no arrests yet.
Smit is also a member of the CPF.
Boksburg North CPF chairperson Mark Gilpin said people could always rely on Smit to sort out electricity problems in Boksburg North.
“He has been a part of the CPF for about five years and is very involved and helpful. We wish him a speedy recovery.”
According to Gilpin, he understands Smit is still in a lot of pain but is doing well.
Ward 22 Clr Madelaine Muller strongly condemned this act of violence.
“Smit is dedicated to his job and was trying to restore electricity.
“I have received numerous messages wishing him a speedy recovery. This incident should never have happened.“
“We have to stop these evil acts against residents and staff who render much-needed services,” Muller said.
Also Read: Rotary bestows Paul Harris on four recipients
Also Read: Rotary helps little ones at Urban Ruins
