The family of murdered off-duty police officer, Sergeant Abongile Mayila, who was stationed at Athlone police station, is battling to come to terms with his senseless and untimely death.
The 39-year-old father of three was shot and killed last Saturday at approximately 7pm in Malamba Way, Langa, on his way home.
Sergeant Mayila’s younger brother, Thando Mkhize, said the family heard about his brother’s death when a neighbour who was passing by the incident recognised him and alerted his wife.
The family immediately rushed to the scene and it was indeed him.
Mr Mkhize said the family was battling to accept his brother’s death – and the circumstances surrounding it.
He described his brother as a loving and caring person who loved his family dearly.
“It is a horrific moment for the entire family.
“I only saw one bullet on his head and we are still waiting for the post mortem to show us the extent of his injuries.
“I sense that this was a planned hit as nothing was stolen from him, I mean nothing.
“Everyone is hurt and I don’t know how we are going to live with it. It is extremely sad,” he said.
Mr Mkhize has appealed to the authorities to find the killers of his late brother and ensure that they face the wrath of the law.
Provincial SAPS spokeperson, Captain Frederick Van Wyk, said police had been alerted to the shooting at about 6.58pm and on arrival, had found Sergeant Mayila lying on his back with a gunshot wound to the head. He died on the scene.
The Hawks are investigating the murder and anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111. All information will be treated confidentially.