Police have restored calm in Reiger Park, Ekurhuleni, following a deadly mass shooting that left six people dead and three others injured on Saturday night.
The Reiger Park shooting has sparked outrage and fear in the community, prompting National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola to deploy a specialised team of investigators to take over the case.
According to police, the attack occurred in the streets of Reiger Park, Boksburg, when gunmen opened fire from a moving vehicle.
Witnesses told officers that the suspects fled the scene immediately after the shooting, leaving residents terrified. No arrests have yet been made, but police say they are pursuing several strong leads.
Masemola visited the area on Sunday afternoon to meet local commanders and speak with residents who gathered to demand justice.
“We came here because we heard what happened yesterday, and we say it cannot continue happening in this way,” Masemola told community members.
“I have decided to deploy an additional investigation team that will look into all Reiger Park cases. The stabilisation team will remain on the ground to ensure safety and stability” .
He added that police had already received key information from witnesses and promised that those behind the shooting would be brought to justice.
“I guarantee you we are going to arrest these thugs that did this. We ask the community to work with the police to identify and isolate those causing havoc,” he said.
The specialised unit, which includes members of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks) and Crime Intelligence, will focus on determining whether the shooting was linked to gang violence or a targeted revenge attack.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi joined Masemola during the visit, condemning the killings and describing the violence as “heartless.” He urged police to act swiftly.
“The entire country is in mourning. It’s our task to hunt them and hunt them now. We must not keep meeting because people are dead — we must meet because criminals are going to prison,” Lesufi said.
The premier also announced that the provincial government would assist the victims’ families and those who remain hospitalised.
He called for stronger community cooperation and accountability within the police force, warning that officers found working with criminal elements would face immediate disciplinary action.
“It is disheartening that communities say they see policemen on the other side, working with criminals. This must stop,” Lesufi said.
Residents have since reported an increased police presence in the area, with officers conducting patrols and door-to-door visits to collect more information.
The community has urged authorities to address growing gang activity in Ekurhuleni, which locals say has led to a surge in violent crime over recent months.
Police have appealed to anyone with information about the suspects or the motive for the shooting to contact the SAPS Crime Stop hotline or their nearest police station.
