According to Constable Mpho Mashakane, the Cleveland SAPS communications officer, the victim, Mr Zhao Pin, was chased by suspects in a black VW Golf 6 and a silver Chrysler Voyager.
“The suspects stopped next to his vehicle and started shooting at him with rifles,” said Const Mashakane.
Mr Pin drove further while the suspects continued shooting at him.
“He eventually lost control of his vehicle and collided with a tree. The suspects ran to the victim’s vehicle and took a black bag before they drove off,” said Const Mashakane.
A bystander saw one of the suspects dressed in a blue uniform armed with a rifle, standing and guarding the suspects.
“Paramedics at the scene declared Mr Pin dead,” said Const Mashakane.
She added that at this stage, the motive for the killing is unknown.
“Investigations are still continuing and anyone with information should come forward,” said Const Mashakane.
Community concerned
Kensington residents took to Facebook to express their concerns about crime in the area.
“My life in Johannesburg: here I am, innocently sitting at my desk this morning. Pop, pop, pop, pop, – semi-automatic gunfire in the main road just up from my house, followed by a single pistol shot. Ten minutes later: ambulance sirens and a police helicopter frantically searching overhead,” said Ms Lee Cahill.
“It is so sad that what has become of first the Johannesburg city centre, then Hillbrow, then the surrounding areas – I honestly do not feel safe here anymore. We live behind our locked doors and fences – too scared to venture outdoors. At least when we were engaged in border wars, we knew who the enemy was – (now) nobody knows. The saddest part is there is no regard for innocent bystanders or people just going about their business. If you get in the way, they will take you out,” said Ms Thelma Fouche.
