The two suspects accused of orchestrating the horrific Soshanguve mass shooting braced the docks at the magistrate’s court, on Wednesday, where their identities were, at last, uncovered.
Soshanguve mass shooting: Two accused appear in court
Tshepo Mosemani, 30, and 33-year-old Sipho Kgomo made their first court appearance for their alleged role in the brutal deaths of four victims, including 14-year-old Vuyolwethu Ziwela.
Proceedings were brief, as Mosemani and Kgomo stated their intentions to apply for bail.
The matter has been postponed to Friday, 12 January 2024.
Police investigations indicate that Mosemani and Kgomo, believed to be part of a gang syndicate wreaking havoc in Jukulyn, Soshanguve, were the two gunmen who indiscriminately opened fire on three vehicles an hour into New Year’s Day, on Monday, 1 January 2024.
The Soshanguve mass shooting claimed four lives: 14-year-old Vuyolwethu Ziwela, Constable Mpho Kgobotlo, Phomolang Malakapatlo, and Thando Dlamini.
Tragically, Ziwela met her tragic death after she had stepped out of her house to greet her uncle, the constable.
According to witness accounts, the suspects orchestrated the deadly mass shooting with assault rifles, and one unnamed source specifically recalled seeing the shooters donned in bulletproof vests, a clear indication that the crime was, more than likely, premeditated.
However, questions remain about who the intended target was. While authorities have since handed the case over to state prosecutors, a motive has yet to be canvassed.
Speaking to reporters, Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi, admitted law enforcement authorities are losing the battle to contain violence in Soshanguve.
“This type of attack characterises the area of Tshwane. The statistics of crime we were given about crime in this area are shocking. There are 331 active cases for this area; the numbers are shocking,” Lesufi added.