Government condemns shooting incident in Qumbu in the Eastern Cape
7 October 2024
Government strongly condemns the horrific shooting that took place in Qumbu, Godini Village on Sunday (6 October 2024) night, where six people tragically lost their lives, and four others were critically injured. This senseless act of violence is totally unacceptable in our country and the law enforcement agencies will ensure that the perpetrators are bought to book.
Government sends deepest condolences to the families of the deceased during this painful time, and wishes a speedy and full recovery to those currently receiving medical care. The families of the victims will receive psycho-social support services from the Government, as they go through this difficult period.
Teams of detectives and forensic experts are on the ground, and investigations are underway. Members of the public with information that may assist in this investigation are encouraged to come forward and cooperate with the police. The public is urged to remain calm and not to take the law into their own hands following this incident.
During this challenging time, Government calls on all sectors of society, including community leaders, civil society, and local authorities, to work together in the ongoing fight against crime. It is through unity and collaboration that we can create safer communities and prevent future tragedies of this nature.
Together, we must stand firm against the scourge of violence and criminality. No one should have to live in fear, and the Government will continue to prioritise efforts to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans.
To report any form of crime, visit a police station near you or call: 086 00 10111, alternatively report via the MySAPS App.
Issued by Nomonde Mnukwa, Acting Government Spokesperson, 7 October 2024
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Police on manhunt for Qumbu killers
7 Oct 2024
Manhunt launched after six patrollers were fatally shot, four wounded near Qumbu
The Provincial Commissioner of the Eastern Cape, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene strongly condemns the senseless and a brutal ambush of community patrollers, where six people were fatally shot, and four were injured at the Lugongozo Junior Secondary School in Tina Falls near Qumbu last night.
It is alleged that on Sunday, 6 October 2024 around 22:45, a group of at least eight (08) men, who were armed with rifles and handguns opened fire to a group of community patrollers. Six people succumbed to their injuries, and four victims were rushed to the nearest hospital. It is said that the patrollers were at a local school, and were preparing for their evening patrols when they were attacked. The suspects (unknown) are still at large, and a motive for the shooting is unknown at this stage.
Police are urging anyone with information that could assist our investigating team to contact a team leader on 082 301 7762. The information may also be shared via Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.
Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene said, “We have mobilised maximum resources, and we are concerned that those who are working and assisting the police are being targeted and attacked. We will do our best to ensure that those who were behind this mass shooting are apprehended. As the Service, we condemn this incident, and we also extend our condolences to the families of the deceased persons. We would also like to wish those who are injured a speedy recovery, concluded Lt Gen Mene.
Issued by Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli, SAPS, 7 October 2024
