A RENOWNED surgeon was shot dead in violent protests in South Africa, it has been confirmed.

Kar Hao Teoh, who was a husband and father, is believed to have taken a wrong turn from a nearby airport when a group approached his vehicle and shot him dead last Thursday.

The surgeon was a highly regarded professional who worked at Princess Alexandra Hospital, in Harlow.

An obituary which has been written as part of a JustGiving page – set up to help support his young family – describes Mr Kar Hao Teoh as “a dedicated colleague and a loving family man.”

It read: “The sudden and tragic loss of Mr. Kar H Teoh has left a void in our hearts.

“Kar was not just a respected trauma and orthopaedic consultant, but also a dear friend, a dedicated colleague, and a loving family man.

“Beyond these professional achievements, Kar was known for his kindness, warmth, and steadfast support for those around him.”

In a statement, the Princess Alexandra Hospital said: "Sadly, we can confirm that Mr Kar Hao Teoh, consultant trauma and orthopaedic surgeon, has died.

"He was a well-respected member of the team, valued colleague and friend to many across the hospital as well as in regional, national and international trauma and orthopaedic networks."

In 2021, Mr Teoh won an international prize for his pioneering research into the treatment of ankle fractures.

A post on the British Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society’s website read: "He was remembered by colleagues past and present as a kind, gentle person, a dedicated and talented surgeon and a rising star of the foot and ankle world who had already made a big impact in the British and European Foot and Ankle Societies.

"Our heartfelt sympathies and condolences go out to them all."

More than £26,000 has been raised via the JustGiving page.

The obituary continued: "Your generosity during this sorrowful time is a testament to the love and respect we all hold for Kar.

"From the depths of our hearts, we thank you for joining us in supporting the Teoh family, ensuring they feel the warmth and care of the community around them."