Thokozile Mnguni
Police have confirmed that the number of injured victims in the Cleveland mass shooting has increased.
Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said: “The number of injured victims has increased to 15, while the death toll remains at 12.”
Captain Sibeko said investigations are continuing as authorities work to establish the motive and trace the suspects responsible.
“The motive for the attack remains unknown and forms part of the ongoing investigation,” said Captain Sibeko.
She confirmed that the shooting occurred on Tuesday evening, 09 June, at approximately 23:10, when police were called to reports of gunfire at Jumpers Informal Settlement in Cleveland.
“Members of the South African Police Service responded to a complaint of a shooting in progress and upon arrival, found multiple victims with gunshot wounds,” said Captain Sibeko.
Emergency Medical Services assisted at the scene and transported injured victims to various medical facilities.
“Emergency Medical Services were immediately summoned to assist the injured and transport them for urgent medical care,” said Captain Sibeko.
Captain Sibeko said preliminary findings indicate that 12 people were killed in the attack.
“Eight adult males and three adult females were declared dead at the scene, while one additional male victim later succumbed to injuries in the hospital,” she said.
She added that additional injured victims have since been confirmed at hospitals, raising the total to 15.
“At least 15 people are now confirmed injured as more victims presented themselves at various hospitals after the incident,” said Captain Sibeko.
Police allege that more than 10 suspects arrived in a white Toyota Quantum before launching the attack.
“It is alleged that more than 10 suspects were dropped off by a white Toyota Quantum and entered the informal settlement through different entrances before opening fire,” said Captain Sibeko.
The suspects allegedly fled the scene in the same vehicle after moving through the settlement and firing at residents.
“The suspects moved through the settlement, opening fire at multiple locations before fleeing the scene in the same vehicle,” said Captain Sibeko.
Captain Sibeko confirmed that a large-scale manhunt is underway.
“Provincial and district detectives, supported by crime intelligence and forensic experts, have been mobilised to track down the suspects,” she said.
Former Mr Malawi, Tadeyo “Athide” Banda, has been confirmed as one of the 12 people who died in a mass shooting.
According to News On Beast, family members have confirmed Banda’s death, prompting an outpouring of tributes in both Malawi and South Africa, where he had been living for several years.
Athide was widely regarded as one of the pioneers of bodybuilding, weightlifting and martial arts in Malawi during the early 2000s. He originally came from Area 18 in Lilongwe before relocating to South Africa in search of better opportunities.
Friends and former associates have been sharing memories of his life. They remember his strong and charismatic personality as well as his remarkable resilience.
One story often repeated dates back to 1997, when Banda survived after being shot twice in the chest during an altercation in Lilongwe.
Nearly three decades later, tragedy has claimed the life of a man many described as a fighter both inside and outside the gym.
Sibeko urged anyone with information to assist police investigations.
“Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stop or use the MySAPS app to assist the investigation,” said Captain Sibeko.