Minister Fritz condemns Philippi 2 shootings, killing 6

The Minister of Community Safety, Albert Fritz, has condemned in the strongest terms the two shooting incidents which were reported in Philippi East within the Nyanga Cluster yesterday, killing six people in total. 

In the first incident, SAPS reported that a shooting incident took place in the afternoon between two parties which involved two Toyota Avanza vehicles on Thekwane Road, Lower Crossroads.

When Philippi East crime prevention members appeared on the scene, a gunman had shot and killed a 19-year-old man. The gunman then fired at the SAPS members who responded and shot the suspect. The suspect died on the scene.

In the second incident, local police were called to a house in Block 4 later that evening where four men had been shot and killed. The fifth victim succumbed to his injuries in hospital. According to SAPS, there is evidence that seven armed men stormed the home at approximately18:30 and fired at random.

Minister Fritz said, “I have been informed that in response to the shootings, SAPS have a pulled together a team of detectives who specialise in serious violent crimes to investigate the two shooting incidents. The detectives are currently conducting interviews.”

Minister Fritz continued, “I call on SAPS to leave no stone unturned in their investigation and interviews, particularly as they investigate whether or not these cases are linked and what the motive behind the incidents are. These criminal acts leave community members traumatised, fearing for their lives whenever they leave their homes. Nobody should live this way. I wish to extend my heartfelt sympathies to families and friends of the deceased.”

Minister Fritz added, “Anyone who has information related to these shooting incidents is urged to immediately come forward and report such to their local SAPS or by calling 08600 10111. Additionally, you can send a tip off via the MySAPS app.”

Please see English audio clip here: https://clyp.it/dkqa1pj4