The provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene has immediately ordered the implementation of the 72-hour activation plan following the senseless killing of three people and the attempted murder of another three males at a tavern in Mqekezweni Administrative area in the Polela Locality in Bityi outside Mthatha last night, October 6.
It is alleged that at about 19:00 on the abovementioned date, the patrons were drinking on the veranda of the tavern when three unknown males arrived.
The first deceased aged 26 who was on the veranda was approached and shot multiple times. The rest of the patrons were ordered to lie on the floor.
“The suspects then went inside and a further two people, aged 31 and 41 were fatally wounded. Three other people, aged between 23-29 also sustained gunshot wounds and were taken to hospital for treatment.”
“At this stage the motive for the shootings is unknown. The suspects are also unknown,” said police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu
SAPS Bityi detectives are investigating three cases of murder and three of attempted murder.
Anyone who can assist in tracing the suspects is urged to contact SAPS Bityi, Detective Captain Mluleki Ngqeleni on 072 730 7381 or Detective Sergeant Bonginkosi Madikazi on 082 442 0585 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or the nearest police station.
All information is confidential, and callers may remain anonymous.
Lieutenant General Mene has called on the communities to work with police in swiftly identifying and apprehending the suspects.
“We urge you to be our eyes and ears on the ground because, as community members you know and see everything that is happening in your communities. These senseless and cruel acts of violence are purely criminal and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.”
“Criminals thrive in communities where their actions are tolerated, therefore, together let us stamp out crime wherever it resides. We dare not allow criminals and crime to inflict fear in our communities. With the implementation of the 72-hour activation plan, we will not rest until these suspects are found and arrested,” Mene said.
