The search for a missing e-hailing driver ended in tragedy last Saturday morning when his burnt vehicle was discovered with his body inside in Taylor’s Halt.
Thembelani Nxumalo (30) from Kwa Mpumuza was reported missing on Friday afternoon after he failed to check in with fellow drivers.
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Sibangani Ngxongo, secretary of the eHailing Regional Consortium, told The Witness that Nxumalo was an active member of several driver safety groups and made a habit of reporting his movements while on duty.
“He was vigilant and always reported his comings and goings for safety purposes. During the week, he typically went off duty between 2pm and 3pm to collect his child from Piet Retief Primary School,” said Ngxongo.
On Friday afternoon, Nxumalo informed colleagues that he was going off duty for the school run and mentioned a possible trip to the Bulwer area.
Around 4pm, concern grew when Nxumalo did not respond to calls.
When Nxumalo’s partner called his phone, an unknown person answered and told her that Nxumalo was busy and assured her he was fine.
“This assurance removed our safety concerns at that stage,” said Ngxongo.
However, by about 6pm, drivers became uneasy when Nxumalo had still not communicated.
A meeting was convened in the France area between 7pm and 8pm, and a co-ordinated search involving driver groups and private security companies began.
The search continued well into the night with no success and resumed early on Saturday morning.
A group searching near Taylor’s Halt decided to comb through a nearby forest known for criminal activity.
“Within ten minutes of searching, the vehicle was found with human remains inside,” Ngxongo said.
uMgungundlovu District SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Sifiso Gwala confirmed that a murder case has been opened.
The victim was found in the boot of the car in the Gubeshe area in Taylor’s Halt.
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He allegedly received a call from a customer in Sweetwaters, and that was the last anyone saw or heard from him.
“Police are urging anyone with information to come forward,” said Gwala.
