A Gqeberha businessman is at the centre of a controversy, and a case of attempted murder has been opened, after a dramatic series of events at the weekend involving an alleged robbery and subsequent act of vigilantism, and a social media outcry.
A case has been opened against Kasi Food Festival Eastern Cape chief executive Theo Gora after he allegedly struck a teenager with his vehicle in the Veeplaas area.
The injured high school pupil, 18, underwent surgery at Livingstone Hospital on Monday morning after suffering from internal bleeding, a cracked skull and swollen brain, according to his family.
Gora, the head of operations at Kasi Delivery, has been released from his position with immediate effect pending the outcome of the police investigation.
Gora admitted in a post on his personal Facebook account to accidentally striking an individual with his vehicle when chasing the man down moments after he and a group of others had allegedly robbed him at gunpoint on Saturday evening.
Gora claimed in the post, which has since been the subject of debate on the platform garnering hundreds of comments and shares, that five unknown men had robbed him of his cellphone and money after he left work.
“In a moment of panic and frustration, I decided to chase after them using my vehicle,” he said in the post.
“During the chase, I tragically struck one of the individuals involved who, to my deep shock and sadness, turned out to be someone I personally know.
“At that moment, I did not recognise him as I was overwhelmed by fear and anger from being robbed.
“My actions were driven by emotion, and I deeply regret taking matters into my own hands.
“This is not something I am proud of.
“I should have allowed the law enforcement authorities to handle the situation.”
Gora extended an unreserved apology to the family and broader community.
“I fully understand the pain this has caused, and I take responsibility for my actions.
“Like many people, I have been a victim of crime on several occasions, and I reacted out of fear and frustration but I recognise that this does not justify my response.
“I am co-operating fully with the authorities to ensure that the matter is handled in the right way.”
Xolisa Jafta, a neighbour of the family of the grade 12 Nzondelelo High School pupil allegedly involved in the robbery, said the last time they had seen the youngster was at about 5pm on Saturday.
“The next thing, two strangers visited his family next door to report that he had been bumped by a car.”
The neighbour said a doctor had revealed that the teenager was experiencing problems with one of his lungs, his brain was swollen, his skull was cracked and he had suffered internal bleeding.
“He is still in a critical condition and we are calling on the residents of Veeplaas to support us.”
The pupil’s brother said on Facebook that a peaceful march would be held on Tuesday in a quest for justice.
“Our hearts are heavy, but our voices will rise,” the brother said.
“We stand as one community for justice and for safety in our streets.
“Supporters who will be joined by Ndzondelelo High School pupils will assemble at the school at 9am.”
Police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg confirmed that a case of robbery had been opened.
“According to the statement of the complainant, at about 8.20pm he was busy closing his business in Koyana Street, Veeplaas.
“He was confronted by five suspects who [allegedly] demanded his belongings.
“The complainant gave them his cellphone and cash, and the suspects fled on foot.
“After the robbery, the complainant [allegedly] got into his vehicle and chased after the suspects who ran off in different directions.”
She said he had then reportedly bumped one of the suspects with his vehicle.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli said a case of attempted murder had also been opened.
Kasi Delivery confirmed on Monday that Gora had since been relieved of his duties and supplied a media statement from the company management posted on its Facebook page, which is followed by 43,000 people.
“We would like to clearly state that Kasi Delivery does not condone or support any form of unlawful behaviour, including taking the law into one’s own hands,” the statement says.
“The actions [allegedly] taken by Mr Gora during the incident that occurred on Saturday night were made in his personal capacity and do not reflect the values or principles of our organisation.
“As management, we have taken the decision to release Mr Gora from his duties with immediate effect, pending the full resolution of the matter and the completion of the necessary legal processes.
“We wish to assure the community and all stakeholders that Mr Gora is co-operating fully with the authorities and is also in communication with the affected family.
“We remain deeply saddened by the events and extend our thoughts to everyone impacted.”
Despite several attempts throughout the day, Gora could not be reached for comment by the time of publication.
No arrests had been made by Monday evening, police said.
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