The Provincial Commissioner of the Eastern Cape, Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncat, 07 October 2026, visit the crime scene at an informal settlement in Willowvale where five people were killed and one person was seriously injured. Lieutenant General Ncata will thereafter chair the activation planning meeting aimed at ensuring the swift arrest of the suspects.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, 06 October 2026, at about 21:50. Police received a complaint of shooting and proceeded to the scene. On arrival, members found four deceased male victims inside a two-room flat with multiple gunshot wounds to their upper bodies. Another male victim was found in another room with gunshot wounds to his chest and right leg. He was taken to a nearby medical facility by a private vehicle and declared dead on arrival. A further victim was taken to hospital by ambulance for medical treatment.
Preliminary investigation revealed that three unknown suspects kicked the door open then opened fire on the victims before fleeing the scene. The motive for the killing is unknown at this stage, and the investigation continues. Cases of murder (five counts) and attempted murder are being investigated.
The deceased are five males aged between 17 and 22 years. The injured victim is a male aged 30 years.
The scene was processed by the Provincial LCRC Task Team. The Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Investigation unit was informed and attended the scene. Numerous cartridges and projectiles of a 9mm pistol were found at the scene.
The SAPS strongly condemns this senseless attack and extends its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. The injured victim is wished a speedy recovery.
Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects is urged to contact the investigating team, Willowvale SAPS, or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Information can also be submitted via the MySAPS App. All information will be treated as confidential
