A community is coming together to get Aiden back behind the drums after a devastating theft stripped a local band’s drummer of the tools he needs to teach and perform.
Johannesburg, South Africa (20 April 2026) – South Africans are rallying behind local metal band Facing The Gallows after a targeted theft wiped out a major part of their working setup, and, for drummer Aiden, his entire livelihood.
The incident happened on 11 April in Randpark Ridge, where the band’s equipment was stolen from a vehicle. Since then, they’ve been working with Honeydew SAPS, security teams and the local community to track leads, but police have indicated that recovery is unlikely.
“While we have secured video footage of the suspects’ vehicle, the reality from law enforcement is a bitter pill to swallow. We have been told these guys are pros and the odds of recovery are low. They didn’t just take equipment. They took a career.” the band shares on BackaBuddy.
It’s a huge loss for a group that has performed locally and abroad for almost two decades.
Around R200,000 worth of gear was taken, including drums, cymbals, audio equipment and band merchandise. The theft is most damaging to their drummer, Aiden who now faces a total loss of income. Aiden uses this specific rig to perform in four different bands and to teach his students.
“This kit was his livelihood and his office,”the band writes. “He relies on this gear to perform in three other bands and, most importantly, to teach his students…Without this gear, Aiden is physically unable to work.”
The theft also puts the band’s ability to perform, tour and continue building their presence at risk. Equipment like this isn’t easily replaced, especially for independent artists. In response, the group has launched a BackaBuddy campaign to help cover the loss and get Aiden back behind the kit.
“We are not ready to let a group of criminals decide when we stop playing. We are launching this campaign to bridge the gap of this R200k loss.”
South Africans, especially the local music community, including other bands and musicians, have stepped in with donations and support. In four days, a total of R20,090 has been raised toward the R200,000 needed to replace the stolen gear. The generosity has left band completely overwhelmed.
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Facing The Gallows is asking the public to keep an eye on second-hand marketplaces for the stolen gear. Contributions can also be made directly to their crowdfunding campaign to help them, and get Aiden back behind the drums again. Find more info here.
“We are dealing with the law, but we are leaning on our family. Let’s bring the thunder back.”
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