Two suspects have been arrested and charged with possession of unlicenced firearms after they allegedly shot and fatally wounded four people in Charlestown on Sunday evening (January 14).
Mornè Potgieter, head of operations at Ithemba Security, said a tip-off was received after the murders had taken place, prompting them to urgently gather intelligence on the alleged suspects.
It’s believed a young man was kidnapped off the streets by the suspects, who used him to force entry to the family’s home.
According to information received, when the homeowner opened the door, the suspects shot and killed the young man, and also shot and killed the woman.
A neighbour apparently came out to assist the family after hearing the gunshots, and that is when the suspects allegedly shot and killed her too, before shooting a male victim on the same premises.
“Following an extensive investigation, the suspect’s hideout was identified in Charlestown,” he said.Together with the Amajuba District Task
Team, Newcastle SAPS’s Tactical Reaction Unit, and Ithemba Security’s Specialised Intervention Unit, a multi-disciplinary operation was conducted and the house was tactically approached, leading to the arrest of the two suspects.
“While inside the hide-out, law enforcement uncovered an AK47 rifle with a fully loaded magazine, as well as loose AK47 and 9mm pistol live ammunition rounds.”
The suspects were charged with the possession of illegal firearms and live ammunition and may be charged with four counts of murder.
“A manhunt has also been launched to trace down the outstanding suspects,” said Potgieter.
The motive for the killing spree is currently unknown and will remain subjective to further intensive investigations.
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