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Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi has called for swift investigations into shootings in Katlehong, Vosloorus and Kempton Park that left several people dead, including four ANC Youth League (ANCYL) members, and several others injured, including a 12-year-old.
Two ANCYL members succumbed to their gunshot injuries at the scene after a shooting in Sophangisa Street, Katlehong North, on Tuesday night, and two died in hospital.
It is alleged the victims were returning from a memorial service for a member of a political party held at Mogobeng Primary School when a man opened fire on them.
The Gauteng provincial government has raised concern about the continued scourge of gun violence and the devastating consequences it has for families and communities.
We urge residents to work with law enforcement agencies by sharing credible information that may assist ongoing investigations
— Panyaza Lesufi, Gauteng premier
Lesufi has called for thorough and urgent investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents and ensure all relevant evidence is brought before the courts.
“We urge residents to work with law enforcement agencies by sharing credible information that may assist ongoing investigations. We must collectively reject violence and build communities where disputes are resolved peacefully, and human life is respected,” he said.
A suspect is in police custody after handing himself over to the authorities, Lesufi noted.
“We commend the role of law enforcement agencies in ensuring the matter proceeds through the criminal justice system. The case has been assigned to the Gauteng political killings task team for further investigation, with charges of murder and attempted murder,” he said.
No gathering, community event or place of mourning should become a scene of bloodshed and tragedy
— Elijah Mhlanga, provincial government spokesperson
Provincial government spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga said the Katlehong incident was a deeply disturbing act of violence that has robbed families of their loved ones, traumatised innocent victims and left the community in shock.
“No gathering, community event or place of mourning should become a scene of bloodshed and tragedy,” he said.
According to the provincial government, one person has been confirmed dead after a shooting on Monday night in Manaka Street in Vosloorus.
In an incident in Birchacress, Kempton Park, a 51-year old man was shot dead while inside his car.
Mhlanga said: “Police said the man was shot as he arrived home in what is suspected to be a hit related to the taxi industry.”
TimesLIVE
Shonisani Tshikalange
www.timeslive.co.za
