Tensions are palpable in Klipgat, North West, following a mob raid on a Somali-owned spaza shop on Wednesday.
Abdullah Abiso murder: Klipgat retaliate by looting Somali shop
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On Monday, 20 May 2024, at around 18:30, Ethiopian businessman Abdullah Abiso was fatally shot in Mabopane Block U near Odi Prison.
The deceased was found inside a Toyota Conquest, and the news of his murder quickly spread throughout the community, igniting anger and retaliation.
Abiso’s murder prompted a violent response from his Ethiopian compatriots, who targeted a shop owned by a Somali national, believed to be connected to the murder.
Eyewitnesses reported that the enraged mob looted and burned the Somali shop in Klipgat as an act of revenge for Abiso’s death.
Local police arrived at the scene to control the situation and began an investigation into both the murder and the subsequent looting.
The police cordoned off the area around the crime scene and are working to gather more information about the incident and the individuals involved.
What we know about the murder
The victim, Abdullah Abiso, was a well-known Ethiopian businessman in the area.
Friends and community members have expressed their shock and grief over his untimely death.
A close friend of Abiso shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, echoing the deep sorrow felt by those who knew him.
“When I saw on the news that someone was shot yesterday in [Block U] near Odi Prison . Never in my mind did it cross that it could be you You broke my heart… May your soul rest in peace,” the user wrote.
Initial reports suggest that Abiso was shot while sitting in his car.
The motive behind the murder remains unclear, but the violent reaction from the Ethiopian community indicates a strong belief that the crime was perpetrated by someone within the local Somali community.
Police have confirmed that they are actively investigating the shooting and are looking into any potential links between Abiso’s murder and the looting of the Somali shop.