Madlanga Commission hears new testimony on fatal 2023 Durban shooting
Captain Ashley Houston of the SAPS took the stand.
On Thursday, 13 August 2026, the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry heard testimony from a new witness regarding a fatal shooting in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, in April 2023. The victims included former tow-truck business owner Bevan Loftus and four others.
South African Police Service (SAPS) Captain Ashley Houston took the stand, continuing with his testimony about gangs and hit squads in upper Durban. He stated that upon arriving at the scene, he identified two of the deceased: Bevan Loftus and Ryan Santos. Houston emphasized that all the victims had headshots and believed he knew the precise killing spot on their bodies.
Earlier, Bevan Loftus' father, Gregory Loftus, had rejected claims before the commission that his son was part of a syndicate involved in alleged "drug theft wars" in the tow-truck industry. During questioning, Gregory Loftus stated that he was not aware of any organized theft wars and maintained his son was not involved in the drug trade. He disputed reports linking the tow-truck industry to drug and theft-related conflicts.
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