The incident brings the number of gun murders under the Calcutta policing precinct since January 1 to 33.

The police in Mkhuhlu, I Mpumalanga, have opened a case of murder after the body of a man, with gunshot wounds, was found inside a car at Mantangaleni in the Calcutta policing precinct.

The body was discovered on Thursday, July 9, at approximately 19:30.

Police received a complaint about a shooting incident and immediately responded to the scene.

On arrival, they found a grey VW Polo on the side of the road.  

Read: Four shot dead in the Mkhuhlu area in less than five days

On the driver’s seat was the body of a man with gunshot wounds.

Emergency Medical Services personnel were called, and they declared the man dead at the scene.

Police are on the lookout for the suspects and are calling on anyone who might have information that can help in the investigation or assist in their apprehension to please call the nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Information can also be given anonymously via the MySAPS app.

The victim was identified by his family as Shaun Shakatsa Meric Matyeke (45).

He was the secretary of ANC Ward 3 in Mkhuhlu.

Th Bushbuckridge Local Municipality Executive Mayor, Lydea Moerane, said she was devastated to learn about the incident.

“I’m still shocked, disturbed, and in pain. He was like my son and I worked with him many times, including now during this by-election,” added Moerane.

Meanwhile, Mpumalanga MEC for the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, condemned the murder.

“The extent of violence in the area, particularly gun violence, is deeply disturbing,” said Macie.

“We are confident that our men in blue will continue to hunt down the suspects or any people behind these barbaric and senseless acts so that they face the full might of the law,” added Macie.

He said that communities deserve to live in a safe and peaceful environment.

The incident brings the number of gun murders in the Calcutta policing precinct since January 1 to 33.