Zimbabwean football star survives gun attack in Johannesburg
Zimbabwe national team striker Divine Lunga escaped serious injury after his car was shot at while driving through Hillbrow, an inner-city suburb of Johannesburg, South Africa. Witnesses reported a sudden burst of gunfire that damaged the vehicle but did not hit the occupants.
A 31‑year‑old defender, who also plays for the South African powerhouse Mamelodi Sundowns, was unharmed. Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said prosecutors are investigating an attempt at murder, but no arrests have been made so far.
The incident raises new concerns amid an already high crime rate in South Africa, the nation reporting one of the world’s highest murder statistics. While the motive remains unclear, local reports suggest the attack may have come from either a disgruntled gunman or a case of mistaken identity, with the suspect allegedly mistaking Lunga for a police officer.
The player and his brother were reportedly en route to church when the shooting occurred. While police continue to collect evidence and track down possible suspects, the incident marks a stark reminder of the volatility that still affects many urban communities in Johannesburg.
Story by Khanyisile Ngcobo, Johannesburg.
