Western Cape police have arrested seven suspects in connection with the brutal murders of seven men in Philippi East last week.

Western Cape police spokesperson Colonel Andrè Traut said that the suspects, aged between 16 and 22, were apprehended during a series of coordinated operations late on Wednesday night and into the early hours of Thursday morning.

“The suspects, aged between 16 and 22, were traced and apprehended during a series of well-coordinated operations that followed days of intensive investigation and intelligence-driven efforts,” says Traut

He said the arrests follow an intensive investigation led by detectives from the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Unit, with support from the Crime Intelligence Unit.

In a statement released by the police, the seven victims were gunned down on Friday in Road 53, Better Life, in what authorities have described as a cold-blooded execution.

The motive behind the killings is still under investigation.

“They are facing multiple charges of murder and will appear in the Athlone Magistrates’ Court tomorrow,” says Traut

Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General (Adv.) Thembisile Patekile, commended the swift action of the investigative teams, calling the arrests a clear message to those who terrorize communities.

“We will not tolerate ruthless acts of violence that destroy lives and destabilise our communities,” said Patekile.

“The men and women of the South African Police Service — supported by our intelligence capability — will continue to hunt down those who commit such barbaric crimes. There will be no hiding place for criminals in this province.”

Police management has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on violent and organised crime, assuring the public that efforts to dismantle criminal networks will continue with urgency and resolve.

IOL NEWS

Source link