The community of Soshanguve, Tshwane is distraught, and Police are shocked to discover bodies with gunshot wounds and partial burns. Four people were shot and killed and eight others were severely injured in a violent confrontation with members of a community policing forum at about 06:00 am, at Marry Me Informal Settlement Ext 3, Soshanguve.

A DEADLY QUARREL

In a statement, the South African Police Service (SAPS) explained that they received reports of a quarrel that broke out around 3 am. "Investigations suggest that at about 3 am, a group of community-based patrollers were converging to continue with their patrols when they noticed five people on the street," SAPS said. "When the patrollers approached the five, a quarrel broke which ended with four dead and eight injured. SAPS said that witnesses in the area reported that the injured victims were taken to hospital in private vehicles and ambulances. "The motive for the attack will be determined by investigations and the Provincial and District Serious and Violent Crime Investigations together with forensic experts are currently combing and interviewing witnesses. Public Order Police as well as Soshanguve members are still in the area to ensure stability,' SAPS added.

ESCAPING DEATH

Meanwhile, SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani said a 36-year-old female victim, residing at Homu 14B village, was inside her shack when she allegedly heard her ex-boyfriend threatening to burn it down. "Upon opening the door, the victim saw the suspect inside her yard holding a container believed to have petrol and a box of matches." He added, "Fearing for her safety, the victim fled the shack and hid nearby. The suspect allegedly proceeded to puncture a JoJo water tank with a sharp object before pouring a flammable substance over the shack and setting it alight," Brigadier Hlulani said. "Emergency services, including the police and a fire brigade, responded to the scene, but the shack and property valued at approximately R20,000 were completely destroyed by the fire." Cases of arson and malicious damage to property were opened, and the suspect, who resides in the same village, was apprehended.