Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene has condemned the tragic shooting of four siblings at an initiation school at Mntla locality in Nqamakhwe on December 5, 2023.
Mene has called on the communities to work with the police in swiftly apprehending the suspect.
“The police are committed to bringing the perpetrator to justice, and we will do everything in our power to ensure accountability for this heinous act. The loss of young lives, especially from one family, is devastating, and we convey our condolences to the family. Let us unite to ensure justice for the victims and prevent such tragedies in the future,” said Mene.
She said they urge communities to come forward with any information that can assist in solving these murders and attempted murder,” said Mene.
Police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu said it is alleged that at about 01:15 am (this morning), the grandfather of the deceased was alerted of a shooting at an initiation school.
She said that the community went to investigate and found three males aged 18-26 years old fatally shot.
“The brother of the deceased males (26) sustained a gunshot wound to his upper body and was taken to hospital for treatment. All three deceased are brothers. However, two of them (18) were initiates, while the third age (26) was not an initiate. In total, four brothers were shot (three died),” said Naidu.
She added that the suspect is unknown at this stage, and the motive is yet to be established.
Naidu confirmed that police are appealing to anyone who can assist in the investigation to contact SAPS Ngqamakhwe on 073 2729873, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or the nearest police station. She said that all information is confidential, and callers may remain anonymous.
Chairperson of the Eastern Cape House of Traditional Leaders Nkosi Mpumalanga Gwadiso conveys his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of the deceased.
