UPDATE: The names of the victims have been released. The first victim was identified as Banele Matiwane (31) and the bystander was Luyanda Veto (age unknown). Both were from Walmer location.
Two people, one being an innocent bystander, were killed during a shootout outside the Pick ‘n Pay Centre in Heugh Road, Walmer, this morning, April 13.
At approximately 11:30, the first victim was allegedly walking across a grass verge near the shopping centre when a suspect walked towards him and started shooting.
Police spokesperson, Col. Priscilla Naidu, said that the victim retreated and ran towards a nearby tree, where he collapsed. “It is further alleged that three other suspects appeared with firearms and fired multiple shots at the victim. An innocent person who was sitting on a bench under the tree was also shot by the suspects,” Naidu explained.
She added that the first victim, a 31-year-old man, succumbed to his injuries and the innocent bystander died while receiving medical treatment at the scene.
“The unknown suspects fled on foot. Motive for the double murder is yet to be established. Names of deceased are withheld until next-of-kin have been informed,” she said.
SAPS Walmer detectives are on the hunt for the four murder suspects.
