GQEBERHA – The SAPS Provincial Serious and Violent crimes Unit are investigating four counts of murder after four people were shot and killed in Walmer yesterday.
According to police the shooting spree occurred in Goniwe Street and behind Sakhasonke, Walmer in Gqeberha on Tuesday, 16 December.
The shooting incident occurred across multiple locations in Walmer after armed suspects allegedly demanded mobile phones before systematically shooting their victims.
Provincial Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa explained:
“Two men aged 24 and 29 were brutally shot several times and died on the scene. It is further confirmed that two other males both aged 22 years were also shot and killed by the alleged suspects in two different locations from a short distance away in G-West, Goniwe street at Walmer.”
Three mobile phones were stolen during the attack.
By the time police arrived at the crime scenes, the suspects were still on scene which resulted in a police shootout.
“They fired shots to the police who then retaliated,” Mawisa shared. “They fled the scene and a chase ensued with no luck. No one was injured during the shootout.”
The gunfight has resulted in additional charges being laid against the suspects, with a case of attack on police (attempted murder) being opened and transferred to the Independent Police Investigative Unit.
Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Thandiswa Kupiso has expressed that seasoned detectives are working on the case.
“Our team of seasoned detectives will definitely not rest until these perpetrators are arrested and brought before court,” Kupiso stated. “We appeal to members of the community to come forth with any information that can lead to the speedy arrest of these ruthless killers.”
The four murder cases, originally opened at SAPS Walmer, have been transferred to the SAPS Provincial Serious Violent Crime Investigation Unit for further investigation.
Police are appealing for public assistance in both cases. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Provincial Serious Violent Crime Investigation unit’s Detective Lieutenant Colonel Sithole at 082 457 2812.
Information can also be provided anonymously through the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.
