Residents of Makhaza Khayelitsha, Cape Town were left in shock after the tragic death of well-known Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) activist and lawyer advocate Ayanda Gladile. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon when Gladile was socialising with friends and enjoying drinks.
According to a witness, gunmen approached Gladile and opened fire while he was sitting with his friends. He was shot in the leg initially, before being shot in the neck, leading to his untimely death on Golide Street. The witness, who recounted the harrowing event, stated that the assailant appeared to know Gladile but did not provide any further information.
News of the tragedy reached Gladile’s mother, Nocawe Gladile, while she was attending church. She was urgently summoned home, unaware of the severity of the situation. Upon arrival, she was devastated to discover her son’s lifeless body lying on the street.
Ayanda Gladile was not only a valued member of the EFF but also a beloved figure in the local community. Banzi Dambuza, the EFF’s regional secretary for Cape Metro, highlighted Gladile’s immense contributions, particularly in the area of political education. He revealed that Gladile, a founding member of the EFF in Cape Town, had faced adversity in the past, including the destruction of his home in 2014 due to his recruitment efforts for the party. Additionally, Gladile played a crucial role in defending individuals facing eviction from the City of Cape Town.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie confirmed the incident and stated that the Harare detectives are currently investigating the murder case. He urged anyone with information about the shocking incident to come forward and help the authorities in their investigation. The police hotline, Crime Stop, can be contacted at 08600 10111, with all information treated confidentially.
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