LIMPOPO – Somali shopkeepers around Sinthumule and surrounding villages say they are living in fear following a string of violent armed robberies targeting their businesses.

One businessman was shot and injured during an attack at Tshiozwi on Friday. He survived but remains traumatised.

‘We are not safe here’

The victim, who asked to remain anonymous, said the attackers demanded money before opening fire.

“We are not safe here, even though we are law-abiding citizens who are only trying to make an honest living. It seems the criminals are jealous of the good work we are doing for the community,” he said.

He was admitted to a local hospital and is currently recovering.

Traders appeal to community for help

Another Somali business owner, Dan Fayesa, said traders in the area are living in constant fear as criminals continue targeting their shops.

“We are asking the community to help identify the attackers because we are here to serve the people who cannot always travel to town to buy food and other necessities,” he said.

Abandoned structures become hiding places

Justice Murwanthi, representing the Community Policing Forum (CPF), said criminals appear to have taken control of some parts of the village and are even threatening local leaders with death.

“We have witnessed an increase in crime in this area, and it is encouraging that the community has resolved to work together with the police to root out criminality,” he said.

Murwanthi added that many abandoned structures in the village have become hiding places for criminals.

“The sooner those structures are removed, the better for the safety of our community,” he said.

Police investigating attempted murder

Vhembe police spokesperson Captain Vuledzani Dathi confirmed that police are investigating a case of attempted murder.

“No arrests have been made so far, and we appeal to anyone with information to come forward and assist the police so that we can solve this case,” he said.