LIMPOPO – Foreign-owned shops in the Sinthumule area are under siege. In the space of just a few weeks, two Somali businessmen have been shot, injured and robbed in separate violent attacks.

The latest incident happened at Ramantsha on May 29. Only weeks earlier, another shop owner was targeted at Tshiozwi.

‘We are not safe here’

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

The Tshiozwi victim was admitted to hospital and has since recovered. The Ramantsha victim is still receiving treatment.

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Traders living in fear

Speaking on behalf of Somali business owners in the area, Dan Fayesa said the community of traders is living in fear as the attacks continue to mount.

“Last month one businessman was shot, injured and robbed. He recovered after receiving treatment in hospital. Now, only a few weeks later, another businessman has been shot and robbed. Who will be the next target?” asked Fayesa.

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Police appeal for information

Police have confirmed the latest shooting. Spokesperson Captain Vuledzani Dathi said a 44-year-old Somali businessman was shot, injured and robbed of cash during the incident.

The victim is currently recovering in hospital. Dathi urged anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward.

Community forum calls for action

The chairperson of the Zoutpansberg Community Development Forum (ZCDF), Patrick Sikhutshi, expressed concern over the growing number of shootings and robberies targeting business operators in the area.

“We are concerned about the increase in attacks on businesspeople. We will be meeting with business owners and the police to discuss measures that can help curb these incidents,” said Sikhutshi.

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He also appealed to residents not to shield criminals and to report any information that could help bring the perpetrators to justice.

“Community members should not hide criminals. Anyone with information should come forward and assist the police,” he added.