Eastern Cape police have launched a manhunt for suspects following the murder of a traditional leader’s mother-in-law and the rape of five women in the Bhityi area in the last 24 hours.
Provincial South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa said in the first incident, Chief Bovulengwe Mtirara's mother-in-law was gunned down in Mqhekezweni.
"Two men wearing balaclavas approached her and fired shots. A case of murder has been registered, and the investigating team is already on the ground together with SAPS forensic experts. The provincial detectives for the Serious and Violent Crimes unit are leading the team to ensure that perpetrators are arrested," Mawisa said.
Meanwhile, in the second incident, five women, aged between 20 and 25, have been raped and robbed at gunpoint, also in Mqhekezweni. The women, according to police, are learners at a local school.
Mawisa said the Provincial Head of the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Investigations unit (FCS) has assembled a team to investigate and apprehend these perpetrators.
"Both investigation teams will leave no stone unturned to ensure that these perpetrators are brought to justice. Anyone with information that can assist in tracing these suspects is urged to contact our SAPS CrimeStop number 08600 10111 or alternatively report to the nearby police station," Mawisa said.
Eastern Cape police commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheli Mene said police are working around the clock to apprehend those behind the two heinous attacks.
The crimes come just hours before Mene is due to launch the province's safer festive season operations.
On Sunday, an 85-year-old woman was killed at Nomzamo Garage, Main Road in Keiskamahoek. Police confirmed that a case of murder, rape and house robbery has been opened for investigation.
Last week, five men were shot dead at the Chris Hani informal settlement in New Brighton. The cause of the shooting is unknown at this stage.
On October 19, five people were found dead at the Ncenjana Location, and investigations continue following the murders of 18 people in Lusikisiki, last month.
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