By Doreen Mokgolo
Mine security investigator Elliot Daniso was fatally shot outside his home in Eastvale, Ekurhuleni on Tuesday night.
The 55-year-old worked for the company contracted to provide security for the Gold One Mine.
More than 500 miners were held underground from 22 to 25 October as part of a strike — still ongoing — by mining union Amcu to demand recognition, challenging the NUM’s status as the only union recognised by the company. Disciplinary hearings are in progress.
Daniso was investigating cases linked to the strike at the mine. The specific details surrounding the cases have not been disclosed.
He had just driven out of his driveway with his wife and two kids when his car was hit.
A source who witnessed the shooting said he was able to continue driving his car an additional six houses down the road, to the home of the local Community Police Forum (CPF) officer. He ran out of the car and jumped over the security fence, calling for help.
But he succumbed to his injuries just outside the officer’s kitchen door.
Daniso’s wife and kids were not injured. His car is pocked with six bullet holes on the driver’s side.
The two suspects were driving in a black BMW with no registration plates.
Speaking to Scrolla.Africa, a colleague of Daniso who asked not to be named for his safety said he and his friends were sitting outside when they heard gunshots just outside their gate.
“When we tried to look over the gate the shooter started shooting in our direction, injuring one of the tenants who sustained two gunshot wounds on his lower body before they sped off.”
Scrolla.Africa understands that the bystander injured in the attack is recovering in hospital.
“We heard neighbours screaming for help that Elliot was injured, calling for someone to call for an ambulance,” the colleague said.
He said that he suspects the hit is linked to the ongoing strike at the mine.
“These people intended to kill him. There was no way he could have survived the hit,” he said.
Gauteng Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed that they are investigating a case of murder and attempted murder.
“The motive of the shooting is unknown at this stage; the suspects are reported to have been driving a black BMW vehicle.”
Scrolla.Africa has approached the Gold One Mine for comment but was told that no statement has yet been released about the attack.
Pictured above: Elliot Daniso.
Image source: Supplied
