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Police also found an unlicensed firearm in the suspect's possession, which is now undergoing testing.
Soshanguve shooting. Picture: Michel Bega
Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the shooting of community safety patrollers in Soshanguve, Gauteng.
This comes after it was confirmed that the death toll from the shooting has risen to six.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu addressed the families of the deceased on Tuesday after tragedy struck at Marry Me informal settlement in Soshanguve over the weekend.
Speaking at the crime scene, Mchunu confirmed that one of the suspects arrested in connection with the shooting is in the country illegally.
Police also found an unlicensed firearm in the suspect’s possession, which is now undergoing testing in the laboratory.
Soon after Mchunu’s briefing, the police confirmed that a second suspect had also been apprehended.
“The police followed up on the information and traced the first suspect to Soshanguve Extension 20. Upon arrival, police recovered one firearm, a 9mm Girsan with ammunition and serial numbers filed off,” said police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Singo.
“The police proceeded to the second address in Soshanguve Extension 6 where the second suspect was arrested. During the arrest, the suspect was found in possession of 9mm CZ with ammunition and its serial number also filed off.”
ALSO READ: Lesufi reveals fifth person dead in Soshanguve shooting
Singo added that the two suspects are expected to appear before the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday on charges of murder, attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
Soshanguve shooting
On 22 March, local patrollers were reportedly continuing their patrols when they encountered a group of five people in the street.
When the patrollers approached the group, a quarrel erupted, resulting in four deaths and eight injuries.
ALSO READ: Soshanguve tragedy: Brutal shooting sparks outrage
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi announced on Sunday, 23 March, that the fifth person died following the attack the previous day.
Mchunu confirmed on Tuesday the death toll had risen to six, with four individuals remaining in hospital and two discharged.
ALSO READ: Calls for ‘stronger crime preventions’ amid Soshanguve killings
Police minister sends condolences
The police minister further extended his condolences to the affected families and those in hospital.
“Main thing with that is to let you know that we are with you with our respects. If we can do anything better to make your pain better, if there’s something like that, we will do that,” he said.
“We wish they get better as soon as possible and please convey our messages to them that we are with them,” Mchunu concluded.
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