Child among injured as Katlehong shooting death toll reaches four

Four people have died and three others remain in hospital after a shooting in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, on Tuesday evening, 13 October. Two children, aged 11 and 14, were reportedly caught in the crossfire.

The victims were allegedly returning from a memorial service for a political party member at Mogobeng Primary School when a gunman opened fire in Sophangisa Street, Katlehong North.

According to SAnews, seven people were shot during the incident. Two men, aged 21 and 23, died at the scene, while two more victims, aged 23 and 27, later died in hospital.

Suspect in custody as police investigate

A suspect has handed himself over to police and remains in custody. The case, which includes murder and attempted murder charges, has been assigned to the Gauteng Political Killings Task Team.

Police have not ruled out a political motive for the shooting. The victims are believed to have been members of the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL).

The shooting has prompted calls for accountability from the organisation, which has condemned the loss of life.

In a statement reported by SABC News, ANCYL Gauteng representative Palesa Molefe said: ‘The blood of our young people cannot continue to flow in our streets. Their lives matter, their futures matter, and their deaths must not be met with silence.’

Investigation continues

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has called for urgent investigations into the killings, urging residents to share credible information with law enforcement.

‘We urge residents to work with law enforcement agencies by sharing credible information that may assist ongoing investigations,’ Lesufi said, according to The Sowetan.

The investigation will establish the circumstances surrounding the attack and whether it was politically motivated. Three injured victims remain in hospital.