CRIME SCENE: Strand, Cape Town: The owner of a panel beat workshop in the Strand, was brutally shot in cold blood inside his business on Wednesday evening, 20 May 2026.

Reports indicate that the 40-year-old Ben Zandamela, owner of Ben Panel Beaters, and his employees were busy working around 18:00.

Thembakazi Mpendukana of the Western Cape police media office said two unknown males entered the premises and started shooting at the victim.

“Strand SAPS members responded to a complaint regarding a shooting incident that occurred at the panel beat shop in Smith Street, Strand. He was declared deceased on the scene, and no other injuries were reported,” said Mpendukana.

According to reports both suspects have been described as African males. Following the shooting, they fled in a white vehicle that had been waiting outside.

Zandamela is originally from Mozambique. 

A murder case was opened for further investigation, and no arrest has been made yet, said Mpendukana.