The Eastern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene, has expressed strong condemnation of the brutal and senseless mass murder of seven individuals, including an eight-year-old child.
The shocking incident took place in the early hours of the morning on May 19th.
Details of the Incident
According to Colonel Priscilla Naidu, spokesperson for the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape, the police received reports of multiple shootings early on Sunday morning.
The tragic events occurred in the Nxanxashe location in Willowvale. Six people—five men, including a child, and one woman—were ruthlessly shot while inside their Mazda 3 vehicle.
Additionally, another victim was found dead about a kilometer away in a Toyota Fortuner.
Not far from these crime scenes, the police discovered an abandoned VW Polo with blood stains, indicating its possible involvement in the violent incident.
Ongoing Investigation
Colonel Naidu stated that the ages of the deceased range from eight to 45 years old.
The motive behind these killings is still under investigation, and no arrests have been made so far.
The identities of the victims are being verified and will be released once their next of kin have been informed.
The Provincial Serious and Violent Crime Investigation Unit has taken on the task of investigating the seven counts of murder.
Call for Public Assistance
Lieutenant General Mene has made an urgent appeal to the public for any information that could aid in solving these murders.
She emphasized the importance of community cooperation in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
“We are committed to providing the necessary resources and support to ensure a thorough and swift investigation. Such level of violence has no place in our society, and we must unite to combat such heinous crimes,” she stated.
Commitment to Justice
Lt. Gen. Mene reassured the public that a team of seasoned detectives will work tirelessly to uncover the truth behind these senseless acts of violence.
She highlighted the SAPS’s dedication to combating such crimes and ensuring that justice is served.
Community Response
The local community has been left in shock and mourning following the brutal killings.
There is a shared sense of urgency and a collective call for justice among residents who are deeply disturbed by the violence that has shattered their sense of security.
Broader Implications
This tragic incident underscores the ongoing issues of violent crime in the region and the urgent need for effective law enforcement and community collaboration.
Lt. Gen. Mene’s strong condemnation reflects the broader societal rejection of such violence and a commitment to restoring peace and safety in affected communities.
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