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

According to Lowvelder, the body was discovered on Thursday (July 9) at approximately 19:30. Police received a complaint about a shooting and immediately responded to the scene.

On arrival, they found a grey VW Polo on the side of the road. On the driver’s seat was the body of a man with gunshot wounds. Emergency Medical Services personnel declared the man dead at the scene.

Political figure targeted

The victim was identified by his family as Shaun Shakatsa Meric Matyeke (45), who was the secretary of ANC Ward 3 in Mkhuhlu.

Bushbuckridge Mayor Lydea Moerane said she was devastated to learn about the incident.

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

Call for information

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. 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,” said Macie.

Macie said 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.

Police are on the lookout for the suspects and urge anyone with information that can help the investigation or assist in an apprehension to call the nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Information can also be provided anonymously via the MySAPS app.

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