Teenager (16) shot and killed in KZN
The circumstances surrounding a shooting in which a teenage boy was killed are being investigated by police.
A teenager (16) was shot and killed in Wentworth, KZN, by two unknown assailants early this morning.
The shooting, which happened in Woodville Road, has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an urgent investigation by local law enforcement.
According to reports from the police, the gunmen fled the scene after the shooting.
Despite numerous efforts to save his life, the teenager died on the way to Wentworth Hospital. Officers from Wentworth Police Station said the victim was transported to hospital in a private vehicle.
Police have launched a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice and provide closure to the grieving family.
The tragic loss of yet another young life to violence has underscored the pressing need for community unity and co-operation in combating crime and ensuring residents’ safety and well-being.
A resident who wished to remain anonymous told Southlands Sun that gang fighting in the area stems from drug-paddling.
“The youth are involved in the sale of drugs, and this has become a major concern in the community because they kill each other. We need a mobile police station in Merebank and Wentworth,” he said.
The ward committee member for health, safety and security, Sharin Rajman, urged law enforcement to eradicate all illicit firearms from the streets.
“We need more police visibility in the community. Nobody has the right to take someone’s life. It’s shocking because our future leaders are being killed almost every day. Such heinous crimes must come to an end,” she said.
Ward 68 councillor Aubrey Snyman alleged that there’s ongoing animosity between two gangs of youngsters in the area. He also said the groups are allegedly involved in drugs.
“It is still unclear what is the exact cause of the shooting, however, the area has witnessed many incidents where teenagers have killed one another over drug dealings in the area. This has been going on for many years. Almost every day, there is an altercation involving the two rival groups in our area. It seems as if such incidents continue despite numerous attempts to reduce crime in Wentworth,” said Snyman.
Wentworth police spokesperson Captain Mbuso Gumede said police are investigating a case of murder.
The police urged anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward and contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or SAPS Wentworth on 031 451 6240/6241/6242. Police said anonymity will be guaranteed for those who wish to provide information discreetly.
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