Durban – The Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) is in mourning following the discovery of the body of the missing 61-year-old electrical engineering lecturer, Chanlall “Shan”‘ Dwarika.
Dwarika was kidnapped by three men last Sunday in Crow Road in Sea Cow Lake, Durban.
CCTV footage shows three men forcing Dwarika into the rear of his black Honda CRV.
His body was found a week later, on Saturday afternoon.
In an emotional letter to staff, students, friends, and family, the MUT said: “Regrettably, our long-serving staff member, Mr. Shan Dwarika has been confirmed dead by his daughter, Ayuushi Dwarika-Rajbansi”.
The letter written on Saturday continued: “May his soul rest in peace. His body was found in Inanda this afternoon.”
Professor Marcus Ramogale, the acting MUT Vice-Chancellor, and Principal said: “I cannot imagine what his family is going through at this moment.
Professor Ramogale said Mr. Dwarika dedicated his whole life to making a positive impact on the lives of historically disadvantaged communities.
“Having been with MUT for 26 years, driving to campus every day from Verulam and staying afterward for consultations with his students who are the same age as his abductors, is shameful that he had to be killed in this manner,” Professor Ramogale said.
“Many of the colleagues have attested to Mr. Dwarika being someone who loves his family and is filled with a positive outlook.
“He loved his family and grandchildren just as he loved the students with all his heart.
“I would like to inform the family, staff, and students that our Counseling Department has volunteered to offer psychological counseling to everyone who wishes to be assisted.”
Higher Education Minister Dr. Blade Nzimande said: “I offer my deepest condolences to the Dwarika family, friends, and the entire Mangosuthu University of Technology community following the brutal killing of Mr. Shan Dwarika”.
Dr. Nzimande added: “Higher Health will work with the University to provide the necessary psychosocial support to the Dwarika family and other individuals affected by this act.”
Police said they have arrested two suspects in connection with Dwarika’s murder and their investigations continue.
Spokesperson Robert Netshiunda said: “Intensive investigation led to the arrests of two suspects on Saturday.”
