KEY POINTS
- Police are investigating the murder of two men shot dead in Kwazakele.
- Authorities are urging the community to provide information anonymously.
- The Eastern Cape continues to face rising violent crime rates.
Police in Gqeberha are calling on the public for assistance following a deadly shooting that left two men dead in Kwazakele on Friday, February 21.
The Provincial Organised Crime Investigation Unit has launched an urgent appeal for information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible.
Gunfire in the night leaves two dead
Around 8 p.m., residents of Sakuba Street in Zwide were startled by the sound of multiple gunshots. Moments later, a car was seen speeding away from the scene.
When community members rushed to investigate, they found two men lying on the pavement, riddled with bullets.
Despite emergency services responding swiftly, they pronounced the victims dead at the scene.
Although the authorities have not identified any perpetrators, they are still uncertain about the motive behind the attack. They are withholding the names of the deceased until their families have been notified.
Community urged to assist police investigation
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward.
Detective Lieutenant Colonel Monde Sitole is leading the investigation and can be reached at 082 457 2812.
Alternatively, individuals can contact Crime Stop at 08600 1011 or report to their nearest police station.
To ensure anonymity, tips can also be submitted through the MySAPS App, a secure platform that allows citizens to provide information without revealing their identity.
However, authorities have assured the public that they will treat all details with the strictest confidentiality.
Unsolved crimes continue to haunt Eastern Cape
This latest shooting adds to the growing number of violent crimes plaguing the Eastern Cape.
The area has experienced rising incidents of targeted murders, abductions and fierce robberies that alarm entire communities.
Moreover, the rising pressure on local law enforcement forces them to reduce violent crimes and accomplish successful criminal prosecutions.
While efforts such as increased patrols and intelligence-driven investigations are underway, community cooperation remains crucial. Without eyewitness testimony or critical leads, many cases risk going unsolved.
