Port Shepstone family target of armed robbers on N2, near Umgababa
Motorists are urged to be vigilant along this stretch of road.
The Ajam family of Port Shepstone and the Essop family of Durban advise motorists to be vigilant while travelling on the N2 near Umgababa. This comes after they were targeted by armed robbers last month.
On November 16, at about 19:00, Raees Essop (son of Shabeer and Tasleem Essop of Durban), Ziyadh Ajam (son of Faizel and Fatima Ajam of Port Shepstone) and Muhammed Ameen Kazi (grandson of Faizel and Fatima Ajam of Port Shepstone) were victims of an armed robbery while travelling from Durban to Port Shepstone on the N2, between Umgababa and Umkomaas (Shell Garage – Ultra City).
As per the families, suspects had placed boulders and tree stumps on the road to stop vehicles.
Faizel and Fatima Ajam, who were travelling separately, also fell victim to this trap when their vehicle was damaged. They were not attacked, but their tyre burst, leaving them stranded.
They contacted Ziyadh for help, and although he was 20 minutes ahead, he was able to make a U-turn to assist his parents – placing himself in the path of the attackers.
Ziyadh’s vehicle was damaged and became immobile. Three gunshots were fired at them, and their money, belongings and even the clothes they were wearing were taken.
The family stated that two-year-old Muhammed was also robbed of his shoes and held at gunpoint.
With the car immobile, Ziyadh, Raees and Muhammed then fled barefoot.
The Ajam and Essop family said that security personnel arrived shortly after and found them in a traumatised state.
“We are grateful to Max Khan, security Muzaffar Khan and Ally’s Panelbeaters for their swift response,” said the families.
“By the mercy and protection of Allah, every one of them survived and is now safely reunited with their loved ones. We kindly ask you to keep them in your duas (prayers) for healing, strength, protection and for Allah to ease their hearts after this traumatic ordeal. May Allah shield them and their families from all harm, grant them complete peace and protect our communities from such dangers.”
Umkomaas Saps spokesperson Captain Ranjith Rampersad said that these incidents, specifically along the N2, are persistent safety concerns for motorists, often associated with criminality.
“Motorists need to be vigilant when travelling through known hot spots,” he said.
“If you encounter obstacles or are a victim, do not stop, continue driving to a safe area or to your nearest police station to seek help.”
According to Lt Colonel Mthembeni Zungu of Umkomaas Saps, joint operations are in place to police these hot spots on the N2, and that every effort will be made to apprehend these criminals.
“The safety of our citizens are paramount.”
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