A shopkeeper was shot dead in Bethelsdorp, north of Port Elizabeth, on Saturday while his counter assistant was at the police station to report a man who had tried to rob the store earlier.

Police spokesperson Priscilla Naidu said at about 18:30 on Saturday a man went into the shop in Rensburg Street, Arcadia, bought a cigarette, and smoked it inside. 

Then he pointed a gun at the assistant and demanded money. 

She refused and they started arguing, so he left. 

Afterwards, he threw stones at the shop, damaging the glass door and so she went to the police station to report him.

While she was away, the 39-year-old shopkeeper was shot dead. 

He had locked the shop, but the serving hatch was open. 

"Several shots were fired through the glass door hitting the man several times," said Naidu. 

She asked that anyone who can assist with the case contact Bethelsdorp detectives on 041 404 3005, their nearest police station, or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.  

- Compiled by Jenni Evans