A Namibian family is struggling to come to terms with the loss of their son, who was allegedly gunned down in a suspected robbery in South Africa on Saturday.

According to a family member, Selma Ndeutapo, 36-year-old Joel Joel, was fatally shot in Carletonville in the Gauteng Province, around 23h00. Joel has been living in South Africa since 2013.

“A criminal case has been opened and the family has positively identified him. The South African police confirmed to us that Joel died on the scene,” Ndeutapo said.

At the time of his demise, Joel had reportedly acquired South African citizenship and went by the name Launa Haimbodi.

Ndeutapo said Joel was walking in the street when he was shot twice by unknown suspects. No arrests have been made. She also added that Joel was robbed of his personal belongings, including his documents. Ndeutapo said that the family is yet to decide on the funeral arrangements and possible repatriation of Joel’s remains.

Ndeutapo said Joel moved to South Africa to live with an aunt of his in Warmbad in the Limpopo Province.

“He went there after completing his Grade 12. He was a casual worker. We will miss him, he was a quiet person, but sociable,” Ndeutapo said.

An official at the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation said the matter has not been reported to the ministry or the Namibian Embassy in South Africa.

Source: Namibia Press Agency