Shopkeeper killed in Delft

By Khanyisa Tabata
09 February 2011

A shopkeeper has been killed and one sustained burned wounds in Delft after what is believed to a botched business robbery.

Police spokesperson Captain Joe Wilson says it is alleged that two unknown males approached the shopkeepers and when the one enquired if they could assist, the one suspect produced a firearm and fired two shots at the shopkeeper.

“Before fleeing the scene the suspects, who were not able to get access to the shop, threw a petrol bomb inside, setting it alight.
His colleague, a 40 year old male managed to escape with the assistance of the community from the secured shop, and only sustained minor burn wounds to his right arm.

“The shop was secured and nothing was taken due to what police believe was a botched robbery. It is unclear if the shopkeeper died as a result of the gunshot wounds or because of injuries sustained during the ensuing fire,” said Wilson.

Wilson added that police have opened charges of murder, attempted murder and arson.

Anyone with information is requested to contact the Investigating Officer, Detective Constable Pieter Bonthuys at (021) 954 9000 or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.