The Eastern Cape government has promised to leave no stone unturned in its quest to bring to justice those responsible for the tragic shooting that claimed the lives of five individuals in Bityi on Friday night. In the wake of this appalling incident, both community leaders and government officials have united in their condemnation of the violence that has been spiralling in the region.
Makhaya Komisa, the spokesperson for community safety, conveyed the heartfelt condolences of MEC Xolille Nqata to the grieving families of the victims. He stated, “The provincial government condemns in the strongest terms the shooting and killing of five people in Bityi. The MEC is making a clarion call on our people to work with police and report these brazen criminals so that they can be arrested and brought to justice.”
The outpouring of grief and indignation was amplified by Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, who has also publicly condemned the violence. During a press briefing, he described the current state of sporadic violence as “unacceptable,” asserting, “Criminals will be dealt with.” Mabuyane stressed the necessity of collaboration between law enforcement and local communities to apprehend those responsible for such heinous crimes.
Expressing his concern over the increasing prevalence of violence in the province, Mabuyane stated, “The level or the propensity to kill is worrying. It’s becoming a very traumatic experience even for us as leaders in this province.” He assured the public that law enforcement officials are dedicated to addressing this pressing issue. “The provincial Commissioner has assured me that they are putting together a multi-faceted, multi-dimensional team that must make sure that this is brought to an end.”
The Premier also highlighted the urgent need to tackle the proliferation of illegal firearms, indicating a strategic direction to curb the escalating violence. “Clearly, we need to get rid of guns that are in these households.” His remarks underscore the broader context of safety and security that has become increasingly fraught in the Eastern Cape.