Tragic shooting claims the life of beloved taxi driver Yaseen Kippie in Lavender Hill

A routine workday ended in tragedy when a taxi driver and family man was gunned down while operating in Lavender Hill on Tuesday, December 16.

Yaseen Kippie, a dedicated taxi driver and family man from Bonteheuwel, was murdered in a senseless shooting incident that occurred in Hek Street, Lavender Hill, reports the Daily Voice. 

The driver was reportedly working in the area, dropping workers off when the incident occurred. He was later taken to the hospital and died.

A family friend of the deceased told the Daily Voice she is devastated because four hours before the incident, he was at her home and that Kippie was like a brother to her and her husband's best friend.

Her family met Kippie about 12 years ago when her son was three years old.

She explains: “We met Yaseen when we had our minibus driving here. He worked for us for a short period until he could purchase his first bus after years of having been a driver-owner in Bonteheuwel.

"My late mother knew him and his late mom for years before I got to know him.

"For the record, I personally think he loved his job. He wasn't just a taxi driver; he was a good mechanic. Had no papers, but could strip an engine with his eyes closed and put it back perfectly. And in record time. I think he liked tinkering with that more than the driving taxi."

Steenberg Community Policing Forum (CPF) Chairperson Nicola Small confirmed that Kippie succumbed to his injuries.

Ms Small said: “We are aware of the senseless murder of Mr Kippie in Lavender Hill yesterday. We ask that the community and witnesses come forward with any information that will lead to the successful arrest of the perpetrators.

"The Steenberg CPF extends our condolences to his family and loved ones."

Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said that Steenberg police responded to a complaint of a shooting incident at about 3.10 pm on the corner of Hek Street and Grindel Avenue.

Twigg reported: “Upon arrival on the scene, (police) found a 55-year-old male inside a minibus taxi who sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his body. The victim was transported to a medical facility for treatment, where he was declared deceased. 

“The motive for the attack forms part of the police investigation. The suspect(s) fled the scene and are yet to be arrested.”

He added that detectives are investigating a murder case.

Bonteheuwel Ward Councillor Angus McKenzie said that he has spoken to Kippie’s wife and their daughters.

Mr McKenzie said: “May God surround them with strength and peace. Our full support is with this family, and we will leave no stone unturned in ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.

“But I ask that you pray today for Muneerah and her daughters - this is not easy."

Anyone with any information about this shooting incident can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.