Westonaria Police are investigating a robbery incident during which a 47-year-old man was shot and killed while his 52-year-old wife was wounded. It happened on Venterspos Road in Westonaria early on Friday, 26 February.
Sergeant Audrey Sefara, Westonaria Police spokesperson, said they were called to the scene of a murder at about 4am. She said police found two victims, a man and his wife both with gunshot wounds to their upper bodies.
The woman told the police that while they were walking towards Westonaria town they were approached by two unknown men who were wearing masks.
They pointed a firearm at the victims and demanded cellphones and money. They managed to take the man’s cellphone, shot both victims and fled the scene on foot,” stated Sefara.
Emergency services were called and the man was pronounced dead on the scene. The woman was transported to hospital with a gunshot wound.
Sefara stated that this incident came after two men had been shot in two separate incidents hours before in Borwa, Westonaria.
The earlier incidents happened just a few metres from each other at the victims’ residential addresses, and they were transported to hospital with gunshot wounds.”
She explained that the perpetrators linked to these incidents were believed to be three African males wearing masks and caps.
The police are pleading with the community to form community neighbourhood watches and to strengthen security around the area.
She warned that they must be vigilant and cautious when walking in fields, and refrain from walking in secluded areas.
Lieutenant Colonel Thandi Witbooi, acting Westonaria Police station commander condemned the attacks as lives were lost, and the freedom of movement had been compromised for all.
He said patrols as well as stops-and-searches were intensified, and urged people to adhere to curfew restrictions and the Disaster Management Act regulations. He appealed to the public to report suspicious behaviour and unlicensed firearms to the police.
Anyone with information may contact the Westonaria Police on 011 278 5300/ 5395; alternatively contact Crime Stop on 086 00 10111 or the Detectives on 082 463 7234.
