THE new year started with terrible news in this kasi.
Rietgat police were called to a shooting incident in Soshanguve Jukulyn, Tshwane in the early hours of Monday morning, 1 January.
They discovered four people with gunshot wounds in the street, and a 14-year-old girl was among the victims.
Residents were shocked and couldn't believe what they saw.
Rose Dilopye, who heard the gunshots, described it as a frightening experience because she couldn't determine whether it was fireworks or a sound of a gun.
She said it was just after midnight when everyone was celebrating the New Year.
"It was suspected to be a botched hijacking because the child was caught in the crossfire while shooting fireworks. More than 80 bullets were fired. I have not seen such a terrible tragedy since I was born," she said.
She said that one minute they were happy, hugging and enjoying the New Year, and the next they were stumbling around trying to figure out what was going on.
"The woman could have survived if the ambulance had arrived in time. But due to the high crime rate in the area, the ambulance crew said they didn't have an escort as they feared for her lives too," she said.
Another witness, Ziwele Sinothando, said two unknown vehicles approached and three African men got out carrying big guns and wearing black bulletproof vests and shot at three vehicles and the deceased person.
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The names of the deceased are Mpho Kgobotlo (30), a constable who was stationed at OR Tambo Police Station, Phomolo Malakapatlo (28), Thandi Dlamini (34), and 14-year-old Vuyolethu Ziwela from Soshanguve block P.
According to Gauteng spokeswoman Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, the circumstances surrounding the incident are currently unknown and no suspects have been arrested.
"Police are asking anyone with information that can assist with the investigation to contact CrimeStop on 08600 10111 or report tips anonymously on MySapsApp," Nevhuhulwi said.
About 80 rifle cartridges and 19 9mm cartridges were found at the scene along with a white Hyundai i20 Silver, as well as a white Toyota Yaris.
Tshepang Boikanyo, councillor in Ward 88, told Daily Sun that the high crime rate in the area was comparable to conditions in Cape Flats.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has strongly condemned the gruesome shooting of the siblings and called for swift action to ensure that the criminals are brought to justice.
"We strongly condemn this heinous act of mass murder. We call on the law enforcement agencies to do everything in their power to find the perpetrators and bring them to justice," Lesufi said.
"The Gauteng government reiterates its unwavering commitment to support and strengthen all local law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime."
Lesufi will visit the crime scene and the bereaved families today to express his regrets.
