A 16-YEAR-OLD teenager lost his life earlier today (May 21) in Woodville Road, Wentworth, after being shot by two unidentified assailants. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an urgent investigation by local law enforcement.

Also read: Shoot-out in Wentworth leaves driver grazed by bullet

According to reports from the police, the suspects fled the scene after the shooting. Despite numerous efforts made to save his life, the young victim succumbed to his injuries while en route to Wentworth Hospital.

Upon arrival at the scene, officers from the Wentworth Police Station discovered that the victim had been transported to the hospital by a private vehicle. The police have since launched a thorough investigation in an effort 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 cooperation in combating crime and ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.

A resident who wished to remain anonymous told the 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 among the community because they kill each other. We need a mobile police station in Merebank and Wentworth,” he said.

Also read: Merebank teen killed in Wentworth shooting

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 a right to take someone’s life. It’s shocking because our future leaders are being killed almost every day. Such heinous crime must come to an end,” she said.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities remain steadfast in their commitment to pursuing justice and holding those responsible for this heinous act accountable.

Ward 68 councillor Aubrey Snyman alleged that there is ongoing animosity among two gangs of youngsters in the area. He also alleged that the groups are 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.

Police spokesperson in Wentworth, Captain Mbuso Gumede, said the police are investigating a case of murder.

In a plea for assistance from the public, the police urged anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward and aid in the investigation.

Anyone who may have witnessed the events leading up to the shooting or have any relevant details is encouraged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or reach out to SAPS Wentworth directly on 031 451 6240/6241/6242. Police said anonymity will be guaranteed for those who wish to provide information discreetly.

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