Melville shooting latest: What we know about the suspects

Chaos erupted in Johannesburg’s party suburb of Melville amid New Year’s Eve celebrations when a drive-by shooting left two people dead and six others in a critical condition. The local community is reeling, and the general South African public have been left aghast at the cruelty exhibited by the suspects.

Information is somewhat scarce at the moment, as authorities attempt to establish who is behind this awful crime. However, what has trickled through this morning includes details of the vehicle used to carry out the shooting, as well as the pin-pointed location and time of the incident.

Melville shooting – latest news and updates

Private security companies eventually cordoned off the area at about 1:30, while they were awaiting assistance from the South African Police Service (SAPS). According to eyewitness accounts, police were late to arrive to the scene due to being inundated with other calls on a particularly bloody New Year’s Eve.

“Multiple shots were allegedly fired from the vehicle at patrons who were sitting outside the restaurant. Eight people were shot, two of whom were declared dead on the scene, while six were rushed to nearby hospitals with two of the six in a critical condition. Both the deceased were women aged between 30 and 40.”

SAPS statement

Melville shooting – everything we know about the suspects:

• The shooters are now the subject of a huge manhunt. Extra services and officers are now working this case
• It’s not known how many people were involved in the Melville shooting, but the perps were driving a BMW SUV.
• They committed this attorcious crime outside of Poppy’s, on the corner of 2nd and 7th street. Gunfire was heard at 1:00, as they committed a drive-by before making their escape.
• These thugs will be facing two charges of murder – and six of attempted murder – if and when they’re apprehended.
• It’s believed that this particular part of Melville is well-monitored by CCTV cameras. It is likely that a clearer picture of the suspects can be created and shared with the public within the next 48 hours.

Useful information: How to report a crime

Police have also explained how eyewitnesses or those with further information can contact them about this crime. The Crime Stop number is 08600 10111. This is a safe and secure line that will treat all callers with anonymity and complete secrecy. Downloading the MySAPS app also allows citizens to report tip-offs without having to identify themselves.

#sapsGP #SAPS launch manhunt for suspects following a drive-by shooting incident at a restaurant where 2 people were killed & 6 injured in Melville. Anyone who witnessed the incident or have info to call #CrimeStop on 0860010111. SW https://t.co/lbAvX5jONc pic.twitter.com/gobzoN5TeE

— SA Police Service (@SAPoliceService) January 1, 2020