MEC For Community Safety and Security, Vusi Shongwe
By Kopano Dibakwane
” These senseless acts of terror must be condemned in the strongest possible terms,”
This was a strong outcry from MEC for community safety, security and liaison in Mpumalanga, Vusi Shongwe, in response to the brutal murder of four family members in Piet Retief on 15 June.
The four deceased family members who reportedly succumbed to gunshot wounds, include a 71 year old woman believed to be the grandmother to a 32 year-old male suspect and three children aged 3, 8 and 10. It is also reported that a fifth victim is currently receiving medical attention in hospital for gunshot wounds.
According to police report, the lifeless bodies were discovered by a male relative who forced entry into the house after knocking on the door without any response.
” We cannot afford to constantly lose lives like this. What is even more painful is that defenceless children are murdered by those who are supposed to protect them,” He said.
Shongwe has called for calm in the community and applauded the police for the swift apprehension of the suspect. He also called for an investigation into how the suspect obtained the fire arm used to commit the crime.
” We are once more appealing to families to seek help and utilise services of government social workers which are readily available in all areas in the province,” said Shongwe.
The MEC has extended his condolences to the family of the deceased and the people of Mkhondo. He Also wished a speedy recovery to the injured victim.
The 32 year old suspect will appear before the Piet Retief magistrate’s court on Monday.
