Update: Tuck shop owner assaulted and robbed in Ezakheni

The owner of ELB Tuckshop in Ezakheni E-section was assaulted and robbed this afternoon.

25-year-old Mr Elase Tarku was in a state of shock and still in a lot of pain when a Ladysmith Gazette journalist went to interview him in hospital. Bravely though, he managed to talk about his terrible ordeal. This is what he had to say…

It all happened when a lady walked up to his store to purchase mealie meal. When Mr Tarku saw her, he opened the gate to help.

As soon as he had opened the gate, 3 armed men barged in. One of them fired a gunshot into the air.

After they had gained access into the tuckshop, the thugs assaulted Mr Tarku, hitting him twice on the head with the butt of a gun.

Police, including the Dog (K9) Unit, IPSS Security and Sharaj Ambulance Services responded to the scene with immediate effect.

Concerned community members gathered around the tuck shop as police took down the details of the incident.

The suspects fled with cash, cigarettes and airtime. With pain and tears in his eyes, Mr Tarku said he hopes the suspects are arrested soon and that his belongings are recovered.