A security guard from Makgophong Village, Limpopo, is wanted by the police for his alleged involvement in the murder of his wife’s cousin and sister-in-law, alongside the wounding of his estranged wife and a one-year-old child.
Manhunt launched for Makgophong security guard in double murder
In a statement, police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba revealed that the incident unfolded on the evening of Saturday, 19 August 2023, in Makgophong, a settlement situated near Zebediela.
According to Col Ledwaba, the couple had been separated due to marital issues, and the wife had returned to her family home in the wake of their troubles.
On the day of the incident, the suspect reportedly contacted his estranged wife before making his way to her residence. Upon arrival, he encountered the victims inside a family vehicle, seemingly preparing to depart.
Tragically, the suspect allegedly opened fire on them, leaving a trail of devastation in his wake.
The tragic shooting resulted in the untimely deaths of two individuals: the wife’s cousin, aged 39, and her sister, aged 29.
Their identities are expected to be released in due course. The alleged shooter’s estranged wife and a one-year-old child also sustained serious injuries during the attack and were rushed to a local hospital.
At present, they remain in critical condition, fighting for their lives.
In response to the harrowing incident, the police have opened two counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder in connection with the case.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear as the community and law enforcement officials grapple with the shock of the events that transpired.
Limpopo provincial top cop Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe expressed deep concern about the prevalence of domestic violence and the alarming rate at which women are subjected to violence by those close to them.
“We are deeply concerned about these incidents of domestic violence in our Province especially during this month when women are celebrated and we expect them to be loved and protected. Instead they are still being violently attacked and killed mostly by people close to them. We can reassure the public that every effort will be made to bring the suspect responsible to justice. Efforts are already underway to investigate the matter,” said Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe.
Law enforcement authorities have called upon the public to aid in locating the alleged perpetrator.