Nine people have been killed in a mass shooting and scores others injured, when a group of unknown people stormed their home and opened fire on them at the Popo Molefe informal settlement in Boitekong near Rustenburg in the North West.
Police say the incident took place on Saturday night around 21:15, and the victims include five men and four women.
“According to information available at this stage, a group of mainly Xhosa speaking individuals were sitting in a yard drinking liquor when an unconfirmed number of Sesotho speaking suspects opened fire on them.
“As a result, eight people died instantly while the ninth one was certified dead-on arrival at the hospital.
“Moreover, eight persons were reported to be injured,” said police spokesperson Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone.Mokgwabone added that the motive behind the shooting is unknown.
“The motive is yet to be determined and no one has been arrested at this stage. Investigations into the matter continue,” explained the spokesperson.
He highlighted that a dedicated team has been established to investigate the incident.
Meanwhile, Premier Bushy Maape has condemned the incident.
“We are extremely shocked and outraged at the mass killing of nine people at Popo Molefe informal settlement.
“We condemn the shooting of these people, and we send our condolences to the families, relatives, and friends of these victims of this hideous crime,” said Maape spokesperson, Sello Tatai.
The Premier also wished those who were injured a speedy recovery and applauded the police for moving with speed in assembling a team of experienced and skilled officers to investigate the matter.
