Police have not ruled out the possibility that the deadly shooting in Katlehong, in the east of Johannesburg, was politically motivated, saying all leads and evidence are being followed.
The Deputy Police Minister, Polly Boshielo, and Deputy Justice Minister Andries Nel visited the scene on Tuesday and one of the affected families.
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Four people died in the shooting, while two children, aged 11 and 14, were injured after they were caught in the crossfire. Three other victims remain injured.
The shooting happened on Tuesday night as a group returned from a memorial service for a political party member at Mogobeng Primary School.
A suspect has handed himself over to police and remains in custody, while the case is being investigated by the Gauteng Political Killings Task Team (PKTT).
Police have also dismissed media reports linking the suspect to another opposition party, saying the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation.
Speaking at the scene, Boshielo urged political representatives to respect people’s right to protest and resolve disputes through dialogue.
“The solution is not the gun. It’s sitting down and discussing until you agree or reach compromises.”
The Gauteng PKTT is now investigating the case, which includes charges of murder and attempted murder.
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Mongezi Koko
www.ewn.co.za
