Stanger garage drag racing dispute turns violent

A quiet Sunday evening in Stanger erupted into chaos when a drag racing challenge at a local garage spiralled into violence, leaving a man injured and vehicles damaged. The altercation, which quickly went viral on social media, has sparked conversations about safety and accountability in the community.

From a casual challenge to confrontation

According to reports, the incident began at the Stanger Manor Engen garage when 30-year-old Ballito businessman Jaden Naidoo and his 23-year-old sister were approached by an individual named Ranen. Witnesses say Ranen spotted Naidoo’s sister’s modified Jetta and challenged her to a drag race.

Naidoo refused, but tensions escalated when a physical confrontation broke out. “He started speaking abruptly to me… that is when he pushed me,” Naidoo alleged.

The situation quickly intensified when 49-year-old local businessman Mervin Pillay, who was dining nearby with his wife’s cousin Ranen, intervened. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, including a man being head-butted, resulting in a broken nose. Pillay said, “We all know each other… out of nowhere, the Dost driver head-butted Ranen in the face and busted his nose.”

Jirrre wonder what happened in Woodmead Engen this evening 😂🥶🥶🥶 pic.twitter.com/1bkd1O5s8Z

kakspotter 🇿🇦 (@kakspotter) February 22, 2026

Damage and accountability

During the altercation, Naidoo allegedly caused significant damage to Pillay’s vehicle by reversing into it multiple times before fleeing the scene. Pillay attempted to prevent him from leaving and contacted the authorities.

The parties later reached an agreement: Naidoo is expected to cover the R2,000 medical bill for Ranen and an estimated R25,000 for repairs to Pillay’s car. Pillay warned that legal action could follow if the agreement is not honoured.

Community response

Lee Subraylu, deputy chairperson of the Stanger Manor Community Policing Forum, confirmed the incident and announced plans for increased patrols, particularly during weekends when social gatherings and car meets are common.

Pillay expressed frustration over social media portrayals of the event, insisting his actions were motivated by a desire to protect his family. “I did nothing wrong. I only reacted when I saw the blood on Ranen’s shirt. Life is too short for you to behave badly,” he said.

A wider conversation on safety

The viral video of the altercation has reignited debate about community safety, responsible behaviour around cars and racing, and the role of bystanders in volatile situations. Residents have called for stricter monitoring at popular weekend hangouts to prevent similar disputes from escalating into violence.

With social media amplifying the incident, many are urging young drivers and spectators to consider the consequences of reckless challenges, both for their own safety and the broader community.

{Source: IOL}

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