Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Nomthetheleli Mene, commended the task team assigned to trace and arrest the suspects involved in the mass shooting in Kwanobuhle on Tuesday, July 11.
According to police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu, the task team, comprising the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes, Provincial Crime Intelligence, Tactical Response Team, National Intervention Unit (NIU) and Anti-Gang Unit, made a breakthrough by arresting five suspects during the early hours of this morning.
“The suspects, aged between 21 and 34 years old, were arrested in Kwanobuhle and Arcadia in Bethelsdorp, respectively.
“It is alleged that at about 19:40 on Tuesday, July 11, three unknown men entered a yard in Mdledle Street in Kwanobuhle and shot and killed six people, further injuring four others,” said Naidu.
“The incident is suspected to be drug-related, and they are detained on charges of six cases of murder and four cases of attempted murder.”
The suspects are expected to appear in the Kwanobuhle Magistrate’s Court soon.
READ MORE | Five suspects appear in court for Kwanobuhle mass murders
The six deceased persons have been identified by their families. They are Siyabonga Williams (24), Sinovuyo Nene (24), Mzuvukile Grootboom (33), Siyamthanda Vena (27), Siyanda Luther Mlilwana (29) and Sivenathi Mxaku (17).”Two victims are still in hospital while the other two were discharged,” Naidu said.
Mene has hailed the breakthrough a success.
“The task team demonstrated unwavering commitment and exceptional skill in apprehending the perpetrators responsible for these heinous murders and attempted murders.
“Their tireless efforts, perseverance and meticulous investigation resulted in the speedy apprehension. They have worked day and night since this incident, sacrificing their safety, to ensure that the arrests bring solace to the victims’ families,” said Mene.
ISSUED BY SAPS
