Two Ethiopian nationals were shot and injured in what police say was an attempted robbery on Monday evening in Tsakane (Steadville).
The two traders were in their vehicle when they were attacked by unknown gunmen, with one being shot three times and the other twice.

Police have indicated that they believe it was an attempted robbery.

However, nothing appears to have been stolen.

The suspects are still at large and police are investigating a case of attempted murder.

The fact that the two men are foreign nationals and nothing was taken has rung alarm bells, with some residents fearing possible xenophobic motives. Police say the motive is unknown.

The Ladysmith Gazette

The Ladysmith Gazette would like to stress, at this stage, that no information received by us indicates that the attack is definitely xenophobic in nature.
It is only natural for people to jump to conclusions. The very nature of such attacks and the chaos that follows means we urge people to refrain from speculation.

Follow us on Facebook as well.