Zimbabwean landlord killed over South African properties

A Zimbabwean business executive who spent nearly three decades working for Transnet Engineering has been shot dead in South Africa, with his family alleging the killing may have been linked to a dispute over his rental properties.

Jeremiah Madondo, who had worked for Transnet Engineering for 28 years, was fatally shot on July 19 after being attacked by unknown assailants. At the time of his death, he was serving as Acting Corridor Quality Manager for the North Corridor based in Vryheid.

According to family spokesperson Ishmael Madondo, the late executive was shot six times in what relatives believe may have been connected to a dispute involving residential properties he owned in South Africa.

The family claims Madondo had instructed tenants occupying two of his properties to vacate before August 1, after allegedly being informed that the houses would be taken over by South Africans.

"We lost a breadwinner, a loving man who has been a source of inspiration," Ishmael said.

"We have been informed that he was shot to death over his three residential properties.

"His tenants were warned to leave the houses because there were claims that by August 1, 2026, the houses would be owned by a South African."

The family did not identify who allegedly issued the warning, and the claims have not been independently verified by authorities.

In a statement, Transnet Engineering expressed sadness over Madondo's death and paid tribute to his long service and dedication to the company.

"It is with great sadness to announce the passing of our dear colleague Mr Jeremiah Madondo on the 19th of July 2026," the company said.

"Mr Madondo joined the Transnet Engineering family on the 28th of January 1998.

"At the time of his passing, he was acting as a Corridor Quality Manager for North Corridor based in Vryheid.

"Transnet Engineering would like to extend their sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time."

Madondo's death has shocked colleagues and members of the Zimbabwean community in South Africa, where he built a successful career spanning almost three decades.

A memorial service was held last Friday at King and Queens Dorenfontein in South Africa before his body was repatriated to Zimbabwe.

He was laid to rest on Sunday at the Madondo family homestead in Hayisoswi Village, Rusape.

Family members described him as a devoted provider whose death has left a significant void.

South African police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting. Authorities have not announced any arrests, and the motive for the killing has not been officially established or linked to the alleged property dispute raised by the family.