TRIBUTES have been pouring in for Upper Highway dog whisperer Emanuel Gwabeni. His family confirmed his death, saying he died in the early hours of Saturday, September 9, as he succumbed to gunshot wounds. 

Family member Nelly Dlamini said he was admitted to RK Khan Hospital last week.

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“He was quickly rushed to the hospital after being shot three times. During the week, he was in and out of the ICU as the bleeding would not stop. We were supposed to see him today after his operation on Friday. We then received a call that informed us about his death this morning,” she said. 

Gwabeni’s story was shared on the Upper Highway Community Facebook page when he was still fighting for his life in hospital during the week. 

The community described him as an amazing person with a big heart. 

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“We are reaching out to the community as we are currently uncertain of what the outcome will be, and we are concerned for him and his family. Emmanuel will be out of action for a while, and he is the sole provider at home. While we await feedback from the hospital on the outcome, we would like to raise funds for him and his family,” read the post. 

Upper Highway community member Allison Noel said it is a sad day for the community.

“He has touched many lives, and he will be dearly missed,” she said.  

The community will be hosting a prayer at Memorial Park in Kloof today, Saturday, September 9, at 14:00. 

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