Taxi boss shot and killed at home

Update

GEORGE NEWS - A manhunt was launched after the chairperson of the George branch of the taxi organisation Uncedo, Welele Mbudede (60), was shot and killed in front of family members at his home in Zone 6, Thembalethu, at about 20:45 on Wednesday 1 March.

Mbudede was killed when two men opened fire on him and a young family member outside their house. He sustained multiple gunshot wounds and died on the scene.

The suspects fled after the shooting and are still at large.

The family member managed to run into the house but not before he was shot in the leg. He was taken to hospital for medical care and has since been discharged.

Paying respects

Garden Route District Commissioner Major General Norman Modishana and several other high-ranking officers visited Mbudede's family at their home last Thursday. Shortly after his delegation left, members of Uncedo came to pay their respects and convey their sympathy to the family.

Following several prayers and a message from Uncedo member Vuyani Khahlule, members gathered outside the house where Mbudede was shot and killed to pray for his spirit.

Mbudede is not the organisation's first chairperson to be gunned down.

In November 2016 Wesley Sikhumbuzo Mini (52) was shot and killed outside his home in Zone 7, Thembalethu, and on 25 May 2015, Go George chief negotiator Tom Queba was gunned down on the N2 near Thembalethu.

Khahlule told George Herald this week that they are still trying to come to terms with Mbudede's murder.

"All of us are still in shock. His death comes as a big loss for the association. We can't say much at this stage while we are still trying to find out what happened," he said.

In the meantime their deputy chairman Mabhuti Mgqobhela has taken over the reins as chairperson.

According to Southern Cape police spokesperson Sgt Chris Spies, the motive for the attack is yet to be established and forms part of the ongoing police investigation. All leads are being followed up.

A murder docket and one of attempted murder have been opened for investigation.

Anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the assailants is requested to contact the investigation officer on 079 894 1576 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Garden Route District Commissioner Major General Norman Modishana and several other high-ranking officers visited Mbudede's family at their home in Thembalethu last Thursday. Photo: Lizette da Silva