The violent killing of District Six resident and father-of-four, Ebrahim Ely, has left his family and community in shock.
Mr Ely, 35, was stabbed to death at his Pontiac Street home on Wednesday June, 22, at about 11.45pm.
Captain Ezra October, communications officer for the Cape Town Central police station, said police are investigating a case of murder and no arrests have been made.
“The suspect entered the premises by breaking the kitchen door window. It appears as though a confrontation between the deceased and the suspect occurred, during which the suspect stabbed the deceased several times, resulting in his death,” said Captain October.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr Ely’s brother, Shaheen, said: “We’re just trying to process this tragedy. It is very hard on the family.”
Shaheen said his brother’s sons were still young and did not understand what had happened while his daughter and wife were trying to remain strong.
Mr Ely’s funeral was held on Thursday June 23 in Bo-Kaap, where he was raised.
The funeral was attended by hundreds of mourners.
“People couldn’t believe it,” said Shaheen of the outpouring of grief. “We got messages of condolences from so many people in our community. People also sent messages of condolences from overseas, as he used to host foreign students here.”
Shaheen added: “He had a very close group of friends, but he was a very, very family-oriented person. There wasn’t a moment when you wouldn’t see him without his family. Even his nephews and nieces… for all of them he was their favourite uncle. He was always making jokes with them. He was very funny.
“What we as a family will miss most is that … that presence.”
