2 Malawians killed in suspected drug-war shooting in KZN
Residents in the area believe the killings are related to another shooting two weeks ago.
Two drug-gangs, one South African and the other Malawian, are suspected to be the cause of a shooting incident which left four people shot, two of them dead, in Ash Road, Pietermaritzburg, on Thursday night. The incident occurred just before 22:00.
Malawian nationals Ebrahim Madi (27) and were killed while two others were injured. Madi was declared dead on the scene while Afriki passed away in hospital
Pietermaritzburg police spokesperson Sergeant Sifiso Gwala says it is alleged that four unknown men approached another group of men who were sitting on the pavement and started firing shots before fleeing on foot.
“The motive for the killing is not known at this stage but police are investigating. A 72-hour action plan has been implemented to track down the suspects.”
Ward councillor Suraya Reddy says the sale of drugs has gone up in the area and the shooting is suspected to be linked to another shooting a few weeks ago.
“[Thursday’s] shooting is drug-related with Malawians and South Africans. According to witnesses, a man was walking in the street when a car came by and the occupants started firing shots at him and shots were exchanged between them.
“This is linked to another shooting that happened about two weeks ago. People are scared. They do not even want to talk about what is happening because they fear for their lives.”
Reddy says a visible mobile SAPS station is required in the area.
“The area also has high prostitution and drug related crimes. Government departments such as human settlements need to come in. We cannot have people living in fear every day.”
A resident who spoke to The Witness and asked to remain unnamed says the issue of crime and drugs is getting out of hand in that area.
She says gunshots can be heard every day
“Last week three people were shot dead. This is ongoing and what makes things worse is that when we go to the police, they do not want to come in time and their visibility in the area is very poor. The police need to come and raid this place.”
She says that shebeens that operate 24 hours are contributing to the crime.
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