Everson Luhanga
Police have arrested two suspects linked to a fatal shooting in the Chicken Farm squatter camp in Soweto on Monday. A third suspect was shot to death after he pointed a firearm at the police.
The arrests are in connection with a shootout when residents of Pimville, who were led by Operation Dudula leader Nhlanhla Lux Dlamini, were confronted by a group of people who opened fire.
Six people were shot, including Kgomotso Diale, who passed away on the scene. Five others were taken to hospital. Three of the victims have since been discharged while two remain in hospital.
On Tuesday, Police Minister Bheki Cele promised the residents of Pimville that the suspects who shot and killed Diale would be arrested within 48 hours. He visited Diale’s family and another injured resident who was shot at the informal settlement.
The minister told the community that his forces would fight crime and bring more resources.He promised to give the Kliptown police station 10 new cars.
Gauteng police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili said that on Thursday, 21 April, police followed up on information about suspects in possession of firearms in Dlamini and Chiawelo, Soweto.
“On arrival, the members surrounded the house, and on entering, one of the members was pointed at with a firearm by a suspect but acted swiftly and shot at the said suspect.
“Two more suspects were placed under arrest and two firearms and ammunition were seized by the police,” said Brigadier Muridili.
Brigadier Muridili said a preliminary investigation has linked the arrested suspects to the shooting incident that occurred on Monday in Chicken Farm.
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Gauteng, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela, has commended the arrest of the suspects. “The extra forces that we have deployed here in Kliptown to enhance police visibility and maintain peace in the area have been working around the clock following up on any information received until they arrived at this house.
“Police officers are trained to act swiftly, especially when their lives are threatened. I am glad that none of the K9 Unit members were injured during the arrest,” said Lt Gen Mawela.
The nationality of the suspects is yet to be determined as they did not have any proof of identity. They will be charged with murder, attempted murder, and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
