Preggy Padayachee, the uncle-in-law of former Crime Intelligence chief Major-General Feroz Khan, was fatally shot on the R21 highway in what appears to be a targeted attack. A friend who was with him sustained injuries during the incident, while another individual managed to escape without harm.
The shooting took place on Monday evening, near Griffiths Road along the R21 highway, close to OR Tambo International Airport.
As stated by police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, initial findings indicate that Padayachee was operating a Fiat vehicle that experienced a mechanical failure.
He sought help from a friend, who arrived soon after with two other individuals.
While they were fixing the vehicle, assailants opened fire on them. Padayachee tried to flee the gunfire but lost control of the vehicle, crashing into a barrier on the highway.
He suffered critical injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
One of the passengers was taken to a hospital with gunshot injuries, while the third person escaped without any wounds.
This assassination has disrupted the law enforcement community.
Padayachee’s nephew-in-law, the suspended Crime Intelligence Deputy Head Feroz Khan, is due to give testimony in private before the Madlanga Commission today. The commission is investigating serious corruption allegations involving the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Padayachee had previously acted as the spokesperson for the family during a challenging period for Khan.
Following Khan’s survival of another shooting in Houghton, Padayachee addressed the media on behalf of his relatives.
He also made public comments during Khan’s arrest in connection with a syndicate involved in precious metals and obstructing justice.
Gauteng police have confirmed that investigations are underway regarding murder and attempted murder charges.
Currently, the motive behind the shooting is unclear, and no arrests have been made. Authorities are exploring the possibility that this attack is related to Khan’s upcoming sensitive testimony before the state corruption commission.
