Six people were tragically shot and killed in the Pienaar Trust area near Dludlu Tavern in the early hours of Saturday (11 January, local time). Among the victims was a woman, and the police have yet to determine a motive for the crime. Several others were reportedly wounded and rushed to hospitals for medical attention. Police officers and investigators are currently combing the scene for evidence and gathering clues.
Provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane confirmed the incident, describing the shooting as occurring around 4:00 AM. Seven spent cartridges were reportedly found at the scene, highlighting the brutality of the attack. The incident has added to the growing list of violent crimes in the Mpumalanga region since the start of the year, with ten murders already recorded.
This latest attack comes just days after the murder of a local businessman, Elvis Presley Makhubeľa, at his home in Entokozweni on January 4. Makhubeľa was reportedly lured outside his house by a group of men before being fatally shot. The escalation of violence in the province has raised concerns among authorities and the local community alike.
The MEC for safety, security, and liaison, Jackie Macie, condemned the killings and urged the public to cooperate with the police by providing any information that could assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice. Macie reassured residents that those responsible would face the full consequences of the law, emphasizing the importance of refraining from vigilantism and instead supporting law enforcement efforts.
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