Key Takeaways
- Two men were shot dead near the Athlone Magistrate’s Court in separate incidents that occurred within minutes of each other
- The men were targeted by gunmen after leaving the courthouse, with one being shot while sitting in a car and the other while trying to flee
- Police have opened two separate murder dockets and are investigating the motive behind the attacks
- The shootings are the latest in a string of violent incidents linked to the Athlone court precinct over the past year
- Residents are being urged to come forward with information to help with the investigation
Introduction to the Incident
A shocking and disturbing incident occurred near the Athlone Magistrate’s Court yesterday, resulting in the deaths of two men. The men, aged 32 and 31, were shot dead in separate incidents that took place within minutes of each other. According to eyewitnesses, the men were targeted by gunmen after leaving the courthouse, with one being shot while sitting in a car and the other while trying to flee. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with many left wondering about the motive behind the attacks and the safety of the area.
The Attack Unfolds
The first attack occurred at 1:45 pm, when a 32-year-old man was shot and killed while sitting in a car about 50 meters from the court. Just five minutes later, gunfire erupted again, this time in Kewtown, roughly 300 meters away, where a 31-year-old man was shot dead. Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed that crime scene experts were combing the areas for clues and that the suspect or suspects had fled the scene in an unknown direction. The motive for the attacks is still unknown and forms part of the police investigation.
Eyewitness Account
An eyewitness who was at the scene and wishes to remain anonymous for safety concerns provided a chilling account of the events. She told the Daily Voice that she was at the Athlone Court and saw the two men being gunned down as they left the courthouse. She described how one of the men was shot multiple times and his body was left lying on the pavement, while the other victim tried to run away but was chased and shot until he collapsed across the road. The eyewitness was left shaken by the incident, stating that it happened so unexpectedly and that innocent people could have gotten hurt.
History of Violence
The double killing is the latest in a string of shootings linked to the Athlone court precinct over the past year. In September, residents held a vigil outside the courthouse following a weekend of violence, which included a man being shot on the premises of the court and another attack near the Dr. Abdurahman Community Health Centre in Kewtown. While police have not confirmed whether yesterday’s shootings are connected to previous cases, the incident has raised concerns about the safety of the area and the need for increased security measures.
Investigation and Call for Information
Police have opened two separate murder dockets and are investigating the motive behind the attacks. Captain van Wyk urged residents to come forward with information, stating that anyone with information about the shooting incidents should contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111. The police are working to piece together the events surrounding the shootings and are appealing to the public for assistance. As the investigation continues, the community remains on edge, waiting for answers and justice for the victims and their families.
Conclusion
The shooting of two men near the Athlone Magistrate’s Court is a disturbing and tragic incident that highlights the need for increased security measures and community engagement to prevent such violent acts. The police are working tirelessly to investigate the motive behind the attacks and bring those responsible to justice. As the community comes to terms with the incident, it is essential that residents come forward with information to help with the investigation and work together to create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.
