A mother in Tshwane is struggling to cope after her 11-month-old baby was brutally shot and killed while in her arms.
The heartbreaking incident took place in June 2024 in the Jeffsville informal settlement, Atteridgeville, when gunmen opened fire on a family gathered around a fire to keep warm.
A Mother’s Worst Nightmare
Salia Mashedi (31) recalled the horrifying moment when her infant daughter was struck by bullets while sleeping in her arms. The baby was shot in the head and leg, dying instantly at the scene.
Salia herself sustained severe injuries, suffering eight bullet wounds in various parts of her body, including her arms and stomach. Another family member was also injured, with a gunshot wound to the right hand.
A Mother’s Pain and Demand for Justice
Still reeling from the loss, Salia expressed her heartbreak and anger, demanding justice for her daughter’s murder.
“This is still painful, and I’m heartbroken. I want those thugs to be sentenced to 100 years,” she said.
Despite her physical recovery, the emotional scars remain. She is determined never to forgive the attackers.
“I will never forgive those thugs. I want to see them rot in jail.”
A Father’s Grief and Search for Answers
Sibonelo Ntuli (29), Salia’s boyfriend and the baby’s father, is also struggling with the immense pain of losing his daughter. He questioned the motives behind the senseless attack and demanded answers from the perpetrators.
“Why did they kill my daughter? Why did they harm my family?” he asked.
Investigation and Arrest
According to Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Mavela Masondo, a case of murder and attempted murder has been opened at Atteridgeville Police Station.
Authorities have arrested one suspect in connection with the attack, but the investigation is ongoing.
Community Shocked by Violence
The senseless killing of an innocent baby has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the growing concerns about crime and violence in the area. Residents are calling for stronger action against criminals to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As Salia and her family mourn their unimaginable loss, they remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice, hoping that those responsible will be held accountable.
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