The Gauteng Provincial Government has strongly condemned a series of deadly shootings in Katlehong, Vosloorus and Kempton Park that claimed three lives and left five people injured, including a 12-year-old child.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, the provincial government described the incidents as a disturbing reminder of the devastating impact of violent crime on communities and the urgent need to strengthen public safety.
The first incident occurred in Sophangisa Street, Katlehong, on Monday evening, 12 October, where two young men were fatally shot and five other people sustained injuries.
According to the provincial government, the victims were allegedly returning from a memorial service at Mogobeng Primary School when a gunman opened fire on them. The shooting has left families grieving and the community traumatised.
In a separate incident, one person was confirmed dead following a shooting in Manaka Street, Extension 2, in Vosloorus, earlier on Monday evening.
Meanwhile, in Birchacress, Kempton Park, a 51-year-old man was shot dead while inside his vehicle as he arrived home. Police reportedly suspect that the killing may be linked to the taxi industry.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi expressed concern over the incidents and confirmed that a suspect in the Katlehong shooting was in police custody after handing himself over to the authorities.
“We welcome the fact that the suspect is in police custody after handing himself over to the authorities,” Lesufi said.
He added that the case had been assigned to the Gauteng Political Killings Task Team for further investigation, with charges of murder and attempted murder.
Lesufi called for a thorough and swift investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents and ensure that relevant evidence is presented before the courts.
The provincial government also extended its condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the five injured victims a full and speedy recovery.
The government expressed particular concern about the continued scourge of gun violence in Gauteng, warning that the loss of young lives to violent crime highlights the need for stronger collective efforts to protect residents.
Lesufi urged members of the public to assist law enforcement agencies by providing credible information that could help ongoing investigations.
“We must collectively reject violence and build communities where disputes are resolved peacefully and human life is respected,” he said.
The provincial government reaffirmed its commitment to working with law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders to improve public safety and ensure that those responsible for violent crimes are held accountable through the justice system.
