Community outraged by death of man (93) who was assaulted by robbers

COMMUNITY leaders in Shallcross have expressed outrage following the tragic death of a 93-year-old pensioner days after he was brutally assaulted during a house robbery.

- MONISHKA GOVENDER and YOSHINI PERUMAL

Vasdev Ramdhani, 93, of Madho Road, died in hospital on April 25, a week after he was assaulted and robbed at his home.

According to Mzansi Fire and Security, Ramdhani and his tenant were held at knifepoint by two suspects and assaulted. Their hands and legs were tied.

“The suspects ransacked the out-building in search of jewellery, but escaped with electronic devices, including a cellphone, laptop, tablet and TV. They attempted to steal a silver Hyundai Getz, but were thwarted by the vehicle’s anti-hijack system,” the security company said in a statement.

Ramdhani’s family declined to comment.

Following Ramdhani’s murder, residents and community leaders have united in their call for a satellite police station and more patrols to combat crime in the area.

In recent weeks, three elderly residents were attacked and assaulted during home invasions, while waiting for their transport and walking in the neighbourhood.

Ronnie Naidoo, who was a recent victim of a house robbery, said he could not sleep since he was robbed a month ago.

“Crime impacts our daily lives. I have lived in fear since hearing of the spate of robberies. But since I became a victim, I have had sleepless nights and continuously live in fear. I think that by having a satellite police station in Shallcross, it would curb crime, as there would be a quicker response time from police and this will deter criminals,” he added.

Another resident, Lallie Pillay, said she too lived in fear, especially after her neighbour was attacked during a home invasion.

“My neighbour is an elderly woman and she was violently assaulted when armed men stormed her home last week. She had to be rushed to hospital. This has left me traumatised, and wondering who will be the next victim.

“I am joining the call for a satellite police station for the Shallcross area as I am tired of living in fear,” she said.