HIS birthday was on Friday, 2 July.
But he had other commitments and postponed the celebration to Sunday, 4 July. So his family prepared a surprise celebration for him.
However, his family members were the ones who were surprised when they received a call that Thulani Mahlangu (37) was killed at work.
Thulani worked as a security guard and was shot when five men pounced on a construction site in Witfield Ridge Complex in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni.
Police spokesman Constable Justice Ramaube said Thulani and his colleague, aged 34, allegedly heard the alarm go off and went out to check.
“They discovered that the fence had been lifted and fixed it,” said Ramaube.
But the alarm went off again after they left and they went out again.
That was when Thulani was shot from behind when they were chased by one of the suspects. The other guard managed to outrun the suspects.
Ramaube said police found one bullet cartridge at the scene.
They also found that Thulani’s cellphone and cash were taken.
Thulani’s devastated cousin, Paulina (37), said his death left his gogo heartbroken.
“He was the breadwinner. He was extending his gogo’s house and was taken before he could finish it. Gogo is saddened,” she said.
Paulina said they prayed for the suspects to be found and made to face the full might hand of the law.
Gogo Martha (69) said Thulani used to help her a lot.
“I now feel like an orphan,” she said.
Ramaube said a case of murder was opened at Boksburg North cop shop for investigation.
Boksburg North police are appealing to the community to help with information that will lead to the arrest of the suspects.
Anyone with information can call 071 675 6986 or 08600 10111.
