Mpumalanga Businessman Murdered in Brazen Daylight Shooting

Tragedy struck New Forest Village in Mpumalanga when 53-year-old businessman Harry Makamu was mercilessly gunned down while sitting with a female companion in his vehicle. The incident occurred on a quiet Saturday afternoon on January 13, behind the bustling Thulamahashe Plaza near Bushbuckridge, an event that has now rocked the local community to its core.

According to eyewitness testimonies, Makamu had parked his blue VW Jetta under a tree, seeking respite with his companion when they were abruptly approached by two armed assailants. The attackers, whose identities remain unknown, demanded money and phones but quickly resorted to violence, launching a sudden and vicious attack.

Witnesses recount hearing the frightening sound of gunfire as the armed men unleashed a flurry of bullets towards Makamu. Despite his desperate attempt to escape the assault by speeding away, his vehicle veered off the road and crashed into a nearby trench, further complicating the rescue efforts.

Onlookers, including several vendors from the plaza, were traumatized by the violent spectacle. One of the vendors revealed that Makamu's companion narrowly escaped the fatal encounter, leaping from the car in a frantic plea for help. In a valiant but futile effort, bystanders rushed to assist Makamu, who, by that point, was grievously wounded and succumbing to his injuries.

The culprits fled the scene, disappearing into the thicket behind the shopping center, and even though a pursuit ensued, the attackers managed to elude capture. They were last seen speeding away in a silver Toyota Tazz, leaving behind a scene of chaos and mourning.

The news of Makamu's death sent shockwaves through his family. His cousin Respect Kubayi, who had just brought a trailer for service upon his uncle's request, was met with the devastating news from the deceased's lover. Makamu's sister-in-law, Joyce Makamu, spoke of him as the family's stronghold, highlighting his generosity and responsibility as both a businessman and a family man.

Colonel Donald Mdhluli of the local police force confirmed that law enforcement is actively investigating a murder case, and the senseless killing of Makamu has indeed left a void in the community he served. The police are calling for anyone with information to come forward to assist in capturing the perpetrators of this heinous act.

As this story unfolds, the community is left to grapple with the reality of increasing violence and the ever-present danger lurking in their daily lives. Harry Makamu's untimely death is more than a statistic; it represents a profound loss for his loved ones and serves as a stern reminder of the fragility of life.