Bottle store Shooting: Apcan employee talks life after fatal shootout
Almost two years down the line, Mandla sat down with the Record to talk about how he has managed to move on from the tragedy.
A second chance at life, a job, and a WhatsApp group of positive people are some of elements that have allowed Mandla Msimango to progress in life after a deadly shootout two years ago almost cost him his life.
This phenomenonal Apcan employee fought for his life after being involved in a fatal shootout at Blue Liquor Store on CR Swart Road on 2 September 2017. His colleague, Sabelo Kunyane, was killed in the attack by armed perpetrators.
Read the initial article here:
https://roodepoortrecord.co.za/2017/09/02/breaking-one-dead-two-injured-liquor-store-robbery-evening/
Mandla, who was transferred to a less risky job after he recovered from his injuries, is now confined in a wheelchair as a bullet which was lodged in his lower body caused damage to his nerves.
Almost two years down the line, Mandla sat down with the Record to talk about how he has managed to move on from the tragedy. “When I was in hospital, I found people who were in worse situations than mine. Some of the activities, such as playing basketball and motivating others, have helped me to overcome my situation,” he said.
He added, “The patients I was with in hospital formed a WhatsApp group that we call ‘Group of Hope’, through which we keep each other motivated”. The group is still active today.
Apart from fearing that he might never walk again, he was initially also distressed about losing his job as a reaction officer since he could no longer drive a car and react to client call-outs. However, his fear was alleviated when the company offered him a light duty job after his recovery.
Also Read:
https://roodepoortrecord.co.za/2017/09/04/bottle-store-shooting-dramatic-video-and-first-hand-witness-account/
“When I returned, the company helped me by providing an alternative job where I work as a control officer – checking CCTV cameras, assisting with operations and calling clients,” a thankful Mandla said.
However, he admitted that he misses being behind the wheel of a white, light-flashing Apcan vehicle, with a gun and a radio strapped to his waist.
“Sometimes, when my colleagues need backup, I wish I was able to get back into action and assist them,” said the former reaction officer with a smile.
When Mandla has to report for duty, he relies on his supervisor and friend, Lindani Dladla, to drive him to and from work. Nevertheless, Mandla still has faith that he might walk again.
