Police hunt for Patel shooters

MALALANE –  Patel was shot while returning from mosque in KaMhlushwa to his Patel Hardware store which is not far from it.
He owns hardware and retail stores situated in Malalane, KaMhlushwa, Naas, and is currently expanding in Schoemansdal. It is alleged that a group of men approached him while he was walking back and opened fire. They then ran to a blue Volkswagen Polo which was parked nearby. The SAPS found the vehicle abandoned near the township later that day. They were also looking for a black Ford Focus believed to have been used by the suspects. It is alleged that he had been hit in the chest and the head. He was transported to Tonga Hospital before being airlifted to an undisclosed hospital. On Monday August 31 Tonga SAPS spokesman, Lt Mzwandile Nyambi, confirmed that no arrests have been made since the incident.
Initial reports received by this newspaper suggested that this was a planned assassination, and Nyambi stated that law enforcement shared the same suspicion. Police are on the heels of the suspects and we believe this was an assassination because the suspects took nothing, which rules out robbery,” Nyambi said. He explained the hospital’s non-disclosure was due to the suspects wanting to finish the job. On Tuesday Nyambi informed Corridor Gazette that the matter had been handed over to the Organised Crime Unit for further investigation. Furthermore this newspaper spoke to residents living nearby to where the shooting had happened. “I just heard four loud gunshots and wondered what was going on. It was scary hearing them, especially during the day. When I heard what had happened I was shocked and also surprised. It is the first time something like this has happened around here,” said a resident. News of the shooting shocked the community and surrounds as soon as the news went viral, messages of support started coming in via social media Mr Irfan Choudhary says, “Allah he will get well soon.” Mr Rahim Sheikh says, “Wish you a speedy recovery and may the Almighty give your friends and family the patience to endure the terrible tragedy. Get well soon! ISA. You are in our thoughts and prayers.”
At the time of going to print attempts by this paper to get an update on Patel’s condition have been unsuccessful, however, indications from a reliable source are that he is still alive, however, critical.