NELSPRUIT - The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has strongly condemned a Domestic Violence incident in which four members of a family were shot, allegedly by a 42-year-man only identified as a son-in-law to his victims. Three died meanwhile the fourth victim (wife of the suspect) is fighting for her life after she too was shot by the suspect. The incident occurred on Saturday, 09 April 2022 at Kanana in Mzinoni at about 15h00.

According to the information, an argument broke out between the man and his wife during the time he visited the family of his wife. The situation turned violent where he allegedly drew a pistol and shot at the four victims, his wife, father-in-law, brother-in-law, and sister-in-law. Only the wife survived the rest succumbed though she is said to be in a critical condition in hospital.

Thereafter the man reportedly handed himself to the police at Ermelo where it is said that he also handed over his lawful pistol with ammunition. The man was charged with three counts of murder as well as an additional charge of attempted murder. Preliminary investigation suggests that the suspect and his wife were having some marital challenges which might have fuelled the situation.

Nonetheless the suspect is expected to appear in court soon facing the said charges.

Meanwhile the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has come out strong in calling for couples to refrain from using violence to resolve issues. "Violence is not the way to go. We urge couples to resolve matters in an amicable way. There was no need for the loss of lives in this manner" commented the General.

Source: South African Police Service