The Silapha2 National Intervention Team in Gqeberha is seeking the community’s assistance in tracing a suspect allegedly wanted for a double murder that took place on June 30, in the SAPS Bethelsdorp policing precinct.
According to police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg, it is alleged that at approximately 03:50, the deceased, Wayde Bowker (25), was on Sweden Street, in Timothy Valley, when he was approached by two suspects.
She said that one of the suspects was armed with a firearm and demanded cash and cell phones from Bowker.
“During the robbery, the deceased argued with the suspects, shots were fired, and Wayde died on the scene.
“Thereafter, the suspects hijacked a white Opel Astra that was parked in the street, and three male suspects and one female drove off with the vehicle. In the Opel Astra, a victim was sleeping and was unaware of the robbery and hijacking that took place.
“Later in the morning, on Siyavuka Street in Booysens Park, the Opel Astra was found burned out. Next to the vehicle, they found Heinrich Williams (40) with a gunshot wound to the head. He was rushed to the hospital, where he later died due to his injuries,” she reported.
She added: “SAPS Bethelsdorp registered two cases of murder. As the investigation unfolded, they positively linked Manelisi ‘Maneli’ Matoto to the murders and a warrant of arrest was issued. It is also alleged that the suspect is linked to other murders within the Nelson Mandela Bay District.”
Police are urging anyone who may have information regarding the whereabouts of the wanted suspect to contact the investigating officer D/WO Zacharia Phethla at 067 596 2425, D/Sgt Sox Sokanyile at 082 442 2270, Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or the nearest police station.
“Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App. All information is confidential, and callers may remain anonymous.”
