Triple murder in Eastern Cape: three young men found shot in bushes, police hunt killers

Three young men were found shot dead in bushes opposite Thuthula Street, Peace Village, on the morning of 3 August 2026, prompting a triple‑murder investigation by the South African Police Service (Saps) in Kwanobuhle.

Discovery and identification

Police were alerted to the scene and, at about 9:35am, officers arrived to find the bodies of the three victims in bushes. Family members have since positively identified the deceased at the scene.

“Upon arrival, officers identified the victims as Alwaba Toba (17), Ayabonga Jantjie (20), and Bonginkosi Matunbu (22). Family members have since positively identified the deceased at the scene.”

Investigation under way

Saps spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana said the motive for the killings is not yet known and that the suspects remain at large. A murder case, with three counts, has been opened at Saps Kwanobuhle and the matter is being investigated by the Saps Serious and Violent Crime Investigation (SVCI) Unit.

Public appeal

Police have appealed to anyone with information to come forward. Members of the public can contact the SVCI investigating officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sithole, at 082 457 2812. Alternatively, information may be shared anonymously via Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or the MySAPS App.

Wider policing updates

The report also notes recent arrests by the Gauteng Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) in separate cases linked to political killings. Acting SAPS Commissioner Puleng Dimpane praised those arrests as evidence of Saps’ resolve to dismantle hit squads and restore public confidence.