A North West businessman, Ben Jabulani Gumbi, was shot dead at a Rustenburg coffee shop and in front of patrons and staff on Wednesday.
Gumbi was ambushed by two assailants in front of Platō Coffee in Kock Street at about 8am.
The incident was captured on CCTV footage. It shows Gumbi being shot several times before collapsing.
Police spokesperson Brig Sabata Mokgwabone confirmed the shooting, adding that police were investigating.
Gumbi’s family said they were shocked by his brazen murder, with a relative saying the businessman received death threats earlier this month in connection with a land development dispute.
The relative shared a video in which Gumbi talks about the alleged threats, saying: “Those who declare war against me and the development, brace yourself, it is not going to be easy. Just make sure you do not lose, it will not be easy. If you declared war and threatened me and my family, please be sure of what you are doing. You may be the worst loser, whether I am here or not. It is not a threat but a promise. Be sure you know what you are doing. Be careful.”
Afternoon @mmodiba10. The video below is of Ben Gumbi explaining the threaths he has been getting for wanting to build a smart city in the Bakubung community in Rustenburg. He was assassinated this morning at a popular coffee shop in Rustenburg business area. pic.twitter.com/WjJHxVdtN9
— PositiveJon (@jon_positive) August 23, 2023
Watch: VIDEO | Durban trucking company boss shot dead at his garage
Gumbi was referring to the development of a R3,2 billion Bakubung Smart City project which was meant to benefit the community.
A group of residents also claimed the same piece of land which Gumbi’s Kubu Property Investment had a 99-year lease on.
According to the municipal manager, the lease approved in 2018.
“The municipality then got surprised when a group of residents claimed they are also allocated the land thorough the Bakubung ba Ratheo.
Bakubung Smart City project is aimed at local economic growth and igniting employment.
WARNING: Graphic Video
A man has been shot dead in
Rustenburg, execution style . pic.twitter.com/CxjFUznPQH— The Instigator (@Am_Blujay) August 23, 2023
