Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Nomthetheleli has strongly condemned the killing of eight people and the injuring of another three in Kwazakele early on Sunday evening, 29/01.

Preliminary investigation at this stage has revealed that between 17:15 and 17:30, the owner of the house was celebrating his birthday when two unknown gunmen entered the yard in Makanda Street in Kwazakele and started shooting at the guests. Seven people (3 females and 4 males) were fatally injured while another four people (2 females and 2 males) sustained gunshot wounds and were taken to hospital for treatment. One of the victims succumbed to the injuries in hospital, bringing the total number of deceased to eight. The owner of the house was among the deceased.

Police have launched a manhunt for the suspects while an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this attack is underway. No arrests have been made at this stage.

The identity of the deceased and injured are still to be established.

The Provincial Organised Crime Investigation are investigating a case of murder (x8 counts) and 3 cases of attempted murder.

Lt Gen Mene has condemned the killings as cowardice and a blatant disregard for human life and has ordered the team of investigators to track and trace the perpetrators in the quickest time possible. She also appealed to the community to ‘ come forward with any information and not to harbour the criminals. These victims were killed by criminals and we will not rest until we find out what happened and who was responsible for these callous and cold blooded attack on these unsuspecting victims.’

Anyone who can assist in identifying the victims or tracing their next of kin or any information relating to the suspects is asked to please contact the Provincial OCI, D/Capt Sitole on 082 457 2812 or Crime Stop on 086 00 10111.

Source: Government of South Africa