**Tragic End to a Joyous Occasion**
What was meant to be a week of celebration turned into heartbreak on Monday night when 31-year-old Khethukuthula “Kataliya” Duma was fatally shot while playing pool at a tuck shop in Dambula, Caluza. Just days before his wedding, Duma was brutally attacked by two unknown gunmen who stormed the shelter where he was playing and opened fire.
Reports indicate that Duma attempted to flee but collapsed on the road, succumbing to his injuries. His wedding was scheduled for Wednesday, turning what should have been a joyous occasion into a devastating tragedy.
## **A Community Leader and Businessman**
Duma was well known in his community as the chairperson and player of the Continental Hub Football Club, which competes in the uMgungundlovu Hollywood Bets Regional League. He was also a successful businessman, owning a security company and two taxis under the Caluza Taxi Association.
His sudden and violent death has left his family, friends, and the entire Pietermaritzburg community in mourning.
## **A Father’s Heartbreaking Loss**
Speaking to *The Witness*, Duma’s grieving father, Thamsanqa “Tama” Duma, described the pain of losing his firstborn son.
“A week of celebration has turned into misery. This is my firstborn, the one I have been with since birth. Around 6 p.m. on Monday, we had a conversation, and then he left. By 7:10 p.m., we called him to confirm a trip to Durban to fetch his wedding suits. By 8:30 p.m., I received the devastating call about the shooting,” he said.
Rushing to the scene, Thamsanqa found his son’s lifeless body on the ground.
“I have never experienced such trauma before. Seeing your child killed in such a brutal manner is unimaginable. He was shot multiple times. I don’t know who could have done this—he had no known enemies. We are waiting for the police to give us feedback,” he added.
## **A Passion for Football and Youth Development**
Duma’s love for football started at a young age. His father recalled how, at just three years old, he would accompany him to games played by the Ashdown Young Bucks, a team Thamsanqa played for.
His grandfather, who owned the Siyamu Continental Football team, was a significant influence on his passion for the sport. After his grandfather’s passing, Duma revived the legacy by transforming the team into the Continental Hub Football Club.
This season marked his second year leading the club, and he was committed to developing young talent. He created numerous opportunities for aspiring players, inspiring those around him with his dedication and leadership.
## **A Wedding Turned into a Funeral**
Duma had planned to celebrate his wedding by playing a game with his team this weekend. Instead, his family is now faced with the heartbreaking task of cancelling wedding plans and preparing for his funeral, which is set for Saturday.
## **Calls for Justice**
Ward councillor Siphiwe Phungula expressed the community’s shock and grief over the incident.
“No one has the right to take another’s life. We hope the police will conduct a thorough investigation and bring those responsible to justice,” said Phungula.
## **Police Investigation Underway**
uMgungundlovu SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Sifiso Gwala confirmed that police are investigating a murder case. However, no arrests have been made so far.
As the community mourns the tragic loss of a respected businessman and sports leader, the Duma family hopes that justice will be served.