Controversial Durban Islamic scholar 'critical but stable' after apparent hit outside court

The family of controversial Durban Islamic scholar Yousuf Deedat has gathered around his hospital bed as he fights to stay alive after being shot in the head outside the Verulam Family Court on Wednesday.

Deedat, known for his contentious views on Christianity and Hinduism, was with his wife, Yasmin, when an unknown gunman opened fire on him before fleeing.

He was airlifted to an undisclosed private hospital.

His son, Raees, released a statement hours after the shooting, saying while Deedat's injuries were “severe”, the family remained hopeful that he would recover.

On Thursday, family spokesperson Prof Salim Abdool Karim said Deedat, 65, was still critical, but “stable”.

“He is in the intensive care unit. The next 24 to 48 hours are going to be important in terms of his recovery. He is pretty much stable at this point.”

Karim said it was a “difficult time for the family”.

“Everybody is shocked by the unexpected and extremely tragic incident,” he said.