A 26-year-old motorist was shot dead while sleeping in his car in Durban's Umlazi suburb, police said on Tuesday.

Captain Khephu Ndlovu said the victim, Sibonelo Lindeda, had parked his rented VW Polo at M Section when he fell asleep at the wheel.

"When he awoke later, he was attacked by unknown people. He was shot several times in the head and chest and died."

The car was not taken.

Police found two 9mm cartridges at the scene and established that he had gone to Umlazi to visit relatives and friends.

"The motive is unknown and no arrests have been made yet," said Ndlovu. - Sapa