Family, friends and the Trichardt community are struggling to come to terms with the brutal killing of two Trichardt brothers and the wounding of their father during a home invasion early yesterday morning (November 5).

Imtiyaaz Bucks (22) and his younger brother, Qaeed (19) were laid to rest before the sun set yesterday.

They were killed when three armed suspects broke into their family home in Schnetler Street before 03:00 on Thursday. Their father, Imraan Bucks (52), was also seriously wounded.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects forced open a window to gain entry into the house. The Bucks family reportedly woke up and caught the armed men inside their home.

One of the robbers opened fire on Imraan and his sons and then fled with his accomplices.

According to the police the suspects ran off taking without any valuables.

Emergency medical services were called to the scene. Imtiyaaz was declared dead at the residence, while Imraan and Qaeed were transported to hospital.

Qaeed, however, was certified dead upon arrival. His father remains in a critical condition, according to police.

The police said the young men’s mother, Amiena, and their two younger siblings were also inside the house during the attack, but escaped unharmed. However, friends later told the newspaper that Amiena also sustained injuries when the robbers attacked her with a crowbar and hammer.

Police have opened cases of double murder, attempted murder and attempted house robbery and have launched a manhunt for three attackers.

Police are appealing to anyone with information that could assist detectives in tracing and arresting the suspects to contact the investigating detectives on 082 497 4729 or Crime Stop on 08600 10 111.

Information can also be submitted through the My SAPS App. Informants may remain anonymous, and all information received will be treated with strict confidentiality.

The provincial commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise, has vowed that police will work around the clock to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

Condolences:

Meanwhile, messages of sympathy and condolences have been pouring in for the Bucks family. Among the messages shared were:
“To the family. So sorry for your loss. Hope the murderers get caught.” – Kewp Roos.

“This is heartbreaking. My prayers and condolences to the family.” – Nadia Tenner.

“May Allah grant the family immense patience (sabr), strength, and peace during this unimaginable heartbreak.” – Leandri Quintin Fourie.

Laerskool Trichardt also expressed its sadness over the loss of the two former learners:
“It is with profound sadness and shock that we have learned of the unexpected passing of our former learners, Imtiyaaz and Qaeed Bucks. We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. Although they have moved on from our school, they will always remain part of our school family.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to their family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. Words cannot adequately express the sorrow we feel. May the family find comfort in the love and support of those around them, and strength in the precious memories of the lives that touched so many.
“They may no longer walk our school corridors, but they will never be forgotten. They will forever remain part of our school’s story and our school family.”

Hoërskool Oosterland also paid tribute to former learner Qaeed Bucks:
“It is with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of our former learner, Qaeed Bucks. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and all those who loved him.
“May you find strength, comfort and peace during this difficult time. Qaeed will remain in the memories of the Oosie community.”

The story was amended to reflect that Qaeed is the son who died in hospital while his brother Imtiyaaz died on the scene. Their mother, Amiena, did sustain injuries.