Young man from eMbalenhle cries for justice after tavern shooting case stalls
Complaints can be reported directly to the Branch Commander or Station Commander, who are responsible for overseeing investigations and ensuring that cases are handled appropriately.
Lifa Dube, a 22-year-old man from Ext 18 in eMbalenhle, is pleading for justice after he was shot at a local tavern in December 2024.
Despite the suspect being arrested and later released on bail, Dube said the case has made little progress due to alleged inaction by the investigating officer.
Dube claims the case stalled after the court instructed the investigating officer to present a J88 medical report during the suspect’s last court appearance in 2025.
“The last time the suspect appeared in court, the investigating officer was instructed to bring my J88 form so the case could proceed.
“After I was discharged from the hospital following surgery, I was given the J88 form to hand over to the investigating officer so it could be completed,” said Dube.
However, Dube alleges that the officer refused to take responsibility for the document.
“He told me to take it to the hospital myself to be completed by the doctor. When I went back to the hospital, the healthcare workers told me it is the responsibility of the investigating officer to submit the J88 for completion,” he explained.
Dube says the situation has left him frustrated and feeling neglected by the justice system.
“What pains me the most is that when I followed up at the police station, the investigating officer told me not to call him and not to come to him — that he would contact me instead,” said Dube.
“I was shocked because I am the victim and I want justice. I nearly died and spent almost a year in the hospital. My life has been put on hold.”
Dube added that the incident has had a lasting impact on his ability to work and support his family.
“I have a child and a family to take care of, but it is now difficult for me to find employment because I cannot lift heavy objects due to the operation. I underwent surgery to remove the bullet, and it was successfully removed,” he said.
Sergeant Busi Mthethwa, eMbalenhle police spokesperson, said police acknowledge the complaint about the alleged lack of follow-up by the investigating officer in an attempted murder case.
Mthethwa said the matter is receiving attention, and internal processes are underway to establish the facts and ensure that all procedures are properly followed.
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“As police, we remain committed to professional service, accountability, and the thorough investigation of all serious crimes.
“Members of the community are encouraged to follow the correct escalation processes when concerns arise.
Complaints can be reported directly to the Branch Commander or Station Commander, who are responsible for overseeing investigations and ensuring that cases are handled appropriately,” said Mthethwa.
Mthethwa said SAPS assures the public that all reported concerns are taken seriously and will be addressed accordingly.
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