Tensions rise in Tsakani after alleged fatal shooting and spaza shop attacks

Locals allegedly torched several spaza shops, mostly allegedly owned by Ethiopian and Pakistan nationals. Picture: iStock Tensions are rising in Ekurhuleni after armed men hired to protect spaza shops owned by foreign nationals allegedly shot and killed one person and injured a 15-year-old teenager in Tsakani, Brakpan. It is alleged that the teenager was shot three days ago, while reliable sources toldThe Citizenthat a local school teacher was also killed on Monday morning.

Yesterday, locals allegedly torched several spaza shops, mostly allegedly owned by Ethiopian and Pakistan nationals. Amir Sheikh, chair of theAfrican Diaspora Forum, called on both fighting parties to remain calm and let the police investigate the matters. “The loss of any life is tragic and the teenager shot is deeply concerning.

Our condolences go to the grieving family, the family of the child and the community,” Sheikh said. “If private security hired by Ethiopian foreign business owners used lethal force to guard the businesses, this raises serious questions that the police must investigate, including the legality of the security firm, firearm possession and circumstances of the shooting.” Sheikh said no business interest justifies unlawful lethal force, nor could community grievances justify retaliatory violence. The rule of law must be upheld.

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He was concerned about the new developments because it may escalate tensions, especially with high emotions around economic and migration issues, crime and foreign shop owners. “Communities like Tsakani have seen how a single incident can lead to unrest targeting foreigner-owned businesses. Today, neighbouring areas like Duduza hostno foreign tradersand the reason is similar to such reckless incidents in the past,” Sheikh said. He added if not managed carefully, incidents like these could set back efforts made through community dialogue, policing and integration.

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