Shot in chest, hospitalised for Eid celebration
INSTEAD of celebrating Eid with his family, Imraan Vally, was in hospital undergoing surgery after being shot in an attempted hijacking.
Speaking to POST from his hospital bed a week after the incident, Vally, 42, said he was returning to his Overport home after purchasing bread and milk from Woolworths in Sherwood at around 9pm.
“While heading home I heard my car tyre make a noise and stopped at the side of the road to investigate. I exited the car and saw a man run towards me. I jumped back into the car and closed the door. Before I could lock the door, the man opened the door and we got into a scuffle.”
Vally said the robber drew his gun and placed it on his chest.
“I thought he was only threatening me but he shot me once in my chest. A friend who I was chatting to over Bluetooth, heard the commotion and rushed to the scene. He was in nearby Sparks Road at the time.”
Vally said the robber fled on foot.
“He failed to take the car or anything else. It was a senseless attack.”
His friend took him to St Augustine’s Hospital where he was stabilised and transferred to a state facility.
“My lungs were injured and I am battling to breathe. I was in the intensive care unit for five days and am grateful to speak again.”
Vally said he wanted to return home to his wife and four children.
“The road to recovery will be long. I still have to undergo operations but at least I am alive.”
Police spokesman Captain Thulani Zwane confirmed the shooting.
“Sydenham police are investigating a case of attempted murder and attempted car hijacking. No arrest has been made at this stage.”