A disturbing shooting in Kuruman, Northern Cape, has sparked widespread outrage after a 36-year-old motorist was allegedly shot during a hijacking, despite pleading with his attackers to spare his life.
The incident reportedly happened on Thursday, 6 August 2026, near the Bankara T-junction in Kuruman. According to information from the South African Police Service (SAPS), the driver had stopped at a hitchhiking point after reportedly giving two men a lift.
What followed was captured on the vehicle’s dashcam, leaving many viewers shocked by the apparent brutality of the attack.
According to police, the driver was travelling in a Toyota Quantum with another passenger when he stopped to pick up the two men. After they entered the vehicle, one of the suspects allegedly produced a firearm and forced the driver from his seat.
The driver was reportedly moved to the back of the vehicle while the suspects threatened him. In the disturbing footage, the man can be heard pleading for his life and reportedly telling the attackers that he had young children waiting for him at home.
Despite his desperate pleas, one of the suspects allegedly fired at him.
The victim was reportedly shot in the face and shoulder. Fortunately, he survived the attack and was able to receive medical attention.
SAPS has opened a case of attempted murder as investigations continue. Police are working to identify and locate the two suspects believed to have been involved in the incident.
Images believed to show the suspects have since circulated widely on social media, with members of the public urged to assist authorities with information that could lead to their arrest.
Unconfirmed claims circulating online have suggested that the suspects may be from Lesotho. However, there has been no official confirmation from police regarding their nationality.
The video has generated strong reactions from South Africans, many of whom expressed relief that the victim survived while calling for the suspects to be arrested and brought before the courts.
Some social media users also warned motorists against picking up strangers, particularly at isolated locations, following the frightening incident.
Others focused on the growing concerns about violent crime and hijackings in South Africa, arguing that motorists and passengers remain vulnerable even when attempting to help people seeking transport.
The case has also renewed discussions about the importance of dashcams and other security measures in vehicles. The footage could potentially assist investigators in establishing what happened and identifying those responsible.
For the victim and his family, the incident has reportedly left a painful reminder of how quickly an ordinary journey can turn into a life-threatening situation.
As the investigation continues, authorities are appealing to anyone with information about the suspects or the circumstances surrounding the shooting to come forward.
The survivor’s ordeal has touched many South Africans, particularly because of his reported plea that he had children waiting for him. Public calls for justice have continued to grow as people await further developments in the case.
About the Author
