South African Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has confirmed the apprehension of a Zimbabwean national allegedly involved in the horrific murders of five community patrollers in Soshanguve’s Marry Me informal settlement. The arrest comes after a weekend of violence that shocked the Pretoria township.
Suspect Details and Ongoing Investigations
The detained suspect, whose identity remains protected due to ongoing investigations, was found to be residing in South Africa illegally.
“Our preliminary findings confirm this individual entered the country without proper documentation,” Minister Mchunu stated. “Authorities are currently tracing his movements and establishing the timeline of his unlawful presence in South Africa.”
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Zimbabwean national arrested for Soshanguve patrollers murder-Image Source@iolDuring the arrest, police recovered an unlicensed firearm in the suspect’s possession, raising further concerns about illegal weapons circulation in the area. Several other individuals are currently being questioned as potential accomplices in the mass murder case.
Chronology of the Tragic Incident
The violent confrontation occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning when a group of community patrollers encountered five suspicious individuals in the Marry Me settlement. What began as a routine patrol escalated into a deadly exchange, leaving four victims fatally shot and partially burned.
Police responding to the scene at approximately 6:00 AM discovered the grisly aftermath. Eight additional victims were rushed to nearby medical facilities, where one subsequently succumbed to their injuries, bringing the death toll to five.
Possible Extortion Link Emerges
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has suggested the attacks may be connected to an organized extortion scheme targeting residents. Community members reportedly pay multiple fees for basic services, including R50 for neighbourhood safety patrols, R50 for water access, and R350 for electricity.
“Our intelligence indicates this criminal operation may be coordinated by incarcerated individuals,” Lesufi revealed. “We have credible information about imprisoned figures continuing to direct illegal activities in Soshanguve.”