Soshanguve community in shock as death toll of patrollers rises to 5! The community of Soshanguve, northern Pretoria, is reeling from the tragic killing of five community patrollers over the weekend. Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi confirmed the updated death toll during a visit to the Marry Me informal settlement on Sunday, where he met with the grieving families of the slain patrollers.
The victims were carrying out their neighborhood watch duties when they were attacked in the early hours of Saturday morning.
A Routine Patrol Turns Deadly
According to reports, the patrollers were conducting their rounds when they spotted a group of men loitering on the street. Suspecting suspicious activity, they approached them to investigate.
However, what was meant to be a routine encounter quickly turned violent.
“A quarrel broke out, which led to their deaths,” authorities reported.
Soshanguve community in shock
Initially, four patrollers were confirmed dead, but Premier Lesufi later revealed that a fifth victim had succumbed to their injuries after the incident.
“There are families who have lost their loved ones, and the police updated the figures today that the number has increased from four to five because someone passed on after the incident,” Lesufi stated.
Community in Mourning
The deaths of the patrollers have left the Soshanguve community in shock and fear. The slain patrollers were volunteers dedicated to keeping their neighborhood safe from crime, yet they became victims of brutal violence.
Residents have described the attack as a devastating loss, with many calling for increased security and better protection for community safety volunteers.
“They were only trying to protect us, and now they are gone. Who will keep us safe now?” one distressed resident asked.
Police Launch Investigation and Manhunt
Law enforcement agencies have vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. Premier Lesufi assured the affected families and the community that police were actively pursuing the suspects.
“The police are working to find the suspects,” Lesufi confirmed.
Investigators are still trying to piece together the exact events that led to the deadly confrontation. No arrests have been made yet, but authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Crime and Community Safety in Soshanguve
Soshanguve has struggled with high crime rates, and many residents rely on community patrollers to supplement police efforts in maintaining safety. These patrollers, who often work without formal protection, have been instrumental in reducing crime and assisting law enforcement.
However, this latest tragedy has raised serious concerns about the dangers they face.
Local community leaders are now calling on the government to provide more resources, training, and protective measures for neighborhood watch teams to ensure their safety while performing their duties.
Government Response and Next Steps
Premier Lesufi has promised that the government will take urgent action to prevent similar attacks.
“This is a tragic situation. No one should die while trying to protect their community. We need to strengthen security and support our patrollers,” he said.
The Gauteng government is expected to hold meetings with law enforcement agencies and community safety stakeholders to discuss improving security measures.
Additionally, there are growing calls for:
-
Increased police visibility in high-crime areas
-
Better coordination between community patrollers and law enforcement
-
More funding and training for volunteer safety groups
Fear and Uncertainty Linger
While authorities work on finding the killers, fear and uncertainty remain in Soshanguve. Residents are worried that such brazen attacks on community patrollers could discourage others from stepping up to help fight crime.
“We are scared. If even patrollers are not safe, what about the rest of us?” another resident lamented.
For now, the community mourns the five lives lost while awaiting answers and justice.
How You Can Help
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the attack to come forward. Residents can contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS app to provide anonymous tips.
As the police investigation continues, the people of Soshanguve can only hope that justice will be served—and that no more lives will be lost in the fight for community safety.