AFTER dropping off his seven-year-old son at school in Tembisa, Shadrack Sidu (55) of Esther Park, also chairman and taxi owner of Johannesburg Taxi Association, was shot nine times in the upper body.
The shooting took place on September 4 at around 8am, and Sidu, a father of 10 children, was declared dead on the scene.
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According to Rabie Ridge SAPS, occupants of a blue Mercedes Benz opened fire on him at the corner of Mdaka and Pollsmoor streets.
“He was on his way back home with his five-year-old daughter in the passenger seat when the attack happened. They found his body lying over the passenger side while his daughter sat on the floor, showing us he died protecting his daughter,” said brother of the deceased, Sipho Sidu.
The bravery and selflessness he showed by protecting his daughter was a true reflection of the man his family, friends and colleagues knew him to be.
“My father was a humble and proud man. After my mother had died of a short and unexpected illness in April, we grew very close to each other, all of the children. He taught us that family comes first and he was a great role model. I hope that one day I can raise my family with the same morals and values with which my father raised us and that my brothers will continue with his business to keep his legacy alive,” said his daughter, Jessica Sidu (21).
Sidu was not only a taxi owner and chairman but also supported many small businesses in the fight against poverty and made a difference in the lives of people around him.
His passion for his work and community led him to serve Johannesburg Taxi Association for 30 years.
“He was an encouraging man, a role model for many and a humble family man. We are very sad to know that he is gone but we rest in the fact and we pray to God that the police will do their job and bring justice to these ruthless men,” said Sipho.
Sidu was laid to rest on Saturday at 10am in Mpumalanga where he grew up and where the rest of his family still lives.
A memorial service was held next to the Engen garage in Esther Park. The family erected a tent for remaining family members, children, friends and colleagues to say their last goodbyes.
Sidu will be missed by his five daughters, five sons, brothers, sisters, family, friends and colleagues.
