A 15-year-old Grade 10 pupil from Zisukhanyo Secondary School was gunned down in a brutal daylight attack while walking to school in Samora Machel on Wednesday morning.

The incident occurred at around 8:20am in Ashley Kriel Street, leaving the community reeling and sparking concerns about escalating youth-related violence in the area.

Police spokesperson Anelisiwe Manyana confirmed the incident and said officers are pursuing leads.

“Samora Machel police are investigating a murder case following a shooting incident on Wednesday, June 11 at around 8.20am in Ashley Kriel Street, Samora Machel, where a 15-year-old girl was shot and fatally wounded,” she said.

“According to reports, police members responded to a complaint of a shooting incident on the mentioned address and upon arrival, they found a female victim lying on the ground with gunshot wounds sustained to her body. The 15-year-old victim was declared deceased at the scene by the medical personnel. The unknown suspect/s who fled the scene are yet to be arrested.” 

While the motive behind the shooting is still under investigation, community sources believe the teenager may have been deliberately targeted.

Reports suggest she sustained four gunshot wounds and that the attack could be linked to the murder of her 18-year-old boyfriend, who was killed the day before.

Her father reportedly identified her body at the scene, adding to the harrowing nature of the tragedy.

The suspects, who allegedly fled on foot after the shooting, have yet to be arrested. Police are calling on the public to assist in the investigation.

“We appeal to anyone who may have information regarding this incident to please contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS app anonymously,” said Manyana.

The Western Cape Education Department has confirmed that counselling services are being made available to Zisukhanyo Secondary learners to help them cope with the trauma.

IOL News

Source link