The Provincial Police Commissioner, Lt Gen Nomthetheleli Mene, has called for the speedy arrest of those responsible for the death of two people and the injury of another in Bethelsdorp last night, 22 June.
According to Colonel Priscilla Naidu, police spokesperson, at about 18:15, police attended to a complaint of shooting in Lawrence Erasmus Drive in Bloemendal, where two men were found lying on the ground.
“One man, Justin Malgas (25) was deceased. He sustained multiple gunshot wounds while the other victim, aged 26-years old sustained a gunshot wound to his head and arm. He was taken to hospital for treatment. The third victim, Kurtley Rossouw (14) was also shot in his back. He succumbed to his injuries while on his way to hospital,” Naidu said.
It is alleged that the three were walking in Lawrence Erasmus Drive when shots were fired at them from a Silver Renault vehicle.
“Malgas died at the scene while one victim was taken to hospital and the third victim ran away. The teenager, Rossouw, who was outside his yard, was fatally hit by a stray bullet.”
The incident is gang-related and the Provincial Organised Crime Investigation (Gang Investigation) are investigating two counts of murder and one attempted murder case.
“Police are appealing to anyone who can assist in the investigation in tracing the suspects to contact SAPS Bethelsdorp on 041 404 3010 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or the nearest police station. All information is confidential, and callers may remain anonymous.”
Mene is making a clarion call to the communities to assist police in tracing and arresting the suspects.
“It is sad when children become victims of crime. It is not only gang members that are shot but innocent bystanders and law-abiding citizens also pay the price due to gang violence. I urge the communities not to turn a ‘blind eye’ to these serious crimes. Instead work with us to ensure that these criminals are put behind bars, where they belong,” added Mene.
