Swift action from Cape Town police resulted in the arrest of five suspects connected to a fatal mass shooting that took place in Philippi East over the weekend, reports Cape {town} Etc.
According to police spokesperson Brigadier Novela Potelwa, the suspects were found with two firearms and apprehended on Monday morning, 9 March, as part of an overnight tracing operation.
‘The suspects, aged between 25 and 35, have been charged with murder, attempted murder, as well as the illegal possession of firearms,’ said Potelwa.
‘[The suspects] are expected to appear in court in due course,’ she added. ‘The motive for the incident is believed to be linked to the crime of extortion.’
Initial police reports from the scene indicated that two gunmen entered the yard on Disa Road at approximately 9:30pm on Saturday, 7 March, and fired several shots, ultimately claiming the lives of three men and a woman.
Another woman, who was injured during the shooting, reportedly left before police arrived.
Provincial serious violent crime detectives took over the investigation on Sunday, and a manhunt – supported by SAPS’ Combat Team – was subsequently launched, leading to the arrests.
Potelwa confirmed that the two firearms found in the suspects’ possession were confiscated and will undergo ballistic testing to determine if they were ‘utilised in the commission of the murders and other crimes’.
As the investigation unfolds, police are appealing to the Marikana community to come forward with information of other crimes believed to be linked to the arrested suspects that were not reported to police.
‘Sergeant Xengana of SVC’s murder and robbery unit can be contacted on 072 485 2261,’ Potelwa concluded. ‘All information received will be handled with the necessary care, protecting the identities of those who come forward.’
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Picture: Esa Alexander / Gallo Images
