The rank manager of Zamokuhle Taxi Association, Sakhile ‘Bhiyemba’ Khathi, was shot dead at the Port Shepstone Taxi Rank on Monday afternoon last week.

Khathi from Mthwalume in Mathulini area was well-known and described as friendly, and a people’s person. Condolence messages have poured in on social media.

Association chairperson Lizwi Maphumulo says they are shattered by Kathi’s untimely death.

“We hope that the police will do their job and find the culprit.”

Maphumulo explains they are helping with Khathi’s funeral arrangements, while the slain man’s brother, Mdu, says his family is devastated. “He was very well-known and was such a friendly person, and for him to die in this manner is shocking.”

He explains the family places their trust in the police to investigate.

Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirms the incident. “Port Shepstone police are investigating a case of murder where a 45-year-old man was shot dead by unknown suspects at the Port Shepstone taxi rank.”

Netshiunda says the matter is still under investigation.

Khathi is survived by his wife, brothers, five sons and a daughter. He will be buried in Mthwalume.