A family man was shot eight times on March 13 and died at the scene in what community members believe is linked to a dispute over rent between the victim and his tenant.

According to Boksburg SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Ntsako Ledwaba, police responded to a shooting incident in the Angelo informal settlement. Upon arrival, officers were directed by concerned residents to an unresponsive man lying on his back in a pool of blood.

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Preliminary investigations revealed that the victim had sustained eight gunshot wounds to his upper body and back. Paramedics declared him dead at the scene.
“No cartridges were found at the scene,” said Ledwaba.

His body was transported to the Germiston state mortuary for further investigation.

Police have urged anyone with information that could assist in the arrest of the suspect/s to contact Boksburg SAPS on 010 497 9900 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

While investigations are ongoing, community members, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of victimisation, claim the killing may be connected to an eviction dispute.

Residents allege that groups operating in the area use intimidation tactics, posing as prospective tenants before refusing to pay rent and threatening property owners who demand payment.

“The victim had rented his property to someone, who residents believe to be part of the group known for hijacking people’s properties.

“The tenant later stopped paying rent, and when the owner attempted to evict him, he allegedly left with the keys to the house and gate. Later, someone arrived and shot the landlord multiple times,” said one of the concerned residents.

Residents also described a climate of fear in the area, alleging the presence of armed groups who extort money from locals.

“Everyone here knows, even the police, that there is a group of armed individuals who have taken over the community by instilling fear. They force business owners to pay so-called ‘protection fees’. We are under siege in our own homes,” the resident said.

However, police could not confirm awareness of these claims and encouraged residents to report criminal activity through official channels.

The incident comes amid heightened concern over vigilantism in nearby areas. Recently, five men linked to a self-styled community patrol group were convicted and sentenced for crimes including murder, kidnapping, and assault in Ramahposa informal settlement.

The group, Jika Mbuyiseni (55), Malepe Isaya Puleng (47), Lepele Jabulani (55), Ratime Saitiel (49), and Zweni Masixolo Mark (36), were each sentenced to 25 years for murder, along with additional sentences for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) and kidnapping, which will run concurrently.

According to Reiger Park police, the group had taken the law into their own hands, kidnapping, assaulting, and ultimately killing a 29-year-old man they suspected of theft.

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