Simon Majadibodu|Published
Two African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) members have been killed and five other people injured in a shooting in Katlehong North, Ekurhuleni.
The shooting occurred on Monday, October 13, in Sophangisa Street, Nhlapo Section, as comrades and community members were taking part in a procession following a memorial service.
Gauteng police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili said seven people were shot during the incident.
“Two men, aged 23 and 21, were declared dead at the scene,” Muridili said.
Five other people, aged between 12 and 27, sustained gunshot injuries and were taken to hospital for medical treatment.
Police confirmed that a suspect was in custody following the shooting.
“Following the incident, the suspect handed himself over to the police,” Muridili said.
The case, which includes charges of murder and attempted murder, has been assigned to the Gauteng Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) for further investigation.
ANCYL condemns shooting
The ANCYL said it was deeply saddened by the deaths and injuries resulting from the shooting, which occurred as comrades and community members were participating in a procession from Mogobeng Primary School to the home of a deceased league member.
The procession followed a memorial service held in honour of an African National Congress Women’s League (ANCWL) member who was also shot and killed approximately two weeks ago.
“It is deeply concerning that, while comrades and community members were gathered to pay their respects and accompany the procession to the deceased member’s home, another shooting incident occurred, resulting in further loss of life and injuries,” the youth league said.
The ANCYL extended its condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased and wished those injured a speedy and full recovery.
“We stand in solidarity with the affected families, comrades and the broader Katlehong community during this difficult period,” it said.
Calls for action against violent crime
The youth league said the recurrence of shootings in the same community raised serious concerns about public safety and the escalating scourge of violent crime.
“Communities must be able to mourn their loved ones and conduct memorial services without the fear of being subjected to further violence,” it said.
“The loss of life under these circumstances is devastating and demands urgent attention from law enforcement authorities.”
The ANCYL acknowledged reports that a person had handed himself over to police following the latest incident and called on the South African Police Service (SAPS) to conduct a thorough investigation into the shooting.
It also urged authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure that anyone found to have been involved was held accountable in accordance with the law.
The youth league further called on law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to combat violent crime in Katlehong and surrounding communities.
“The safety of our people cannot be compromised, and communities deserve to live without the constant fear of violence,” it said.
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