Police said the motive behind the shooting is still unknown. Three men and a woman died on Thursday (14/5) after they were allegedly attacked by armed suspects.

The attack took place near Perdehoek Farm along the R26 Road, about 8km outside Tweeling in the Fezile Dabi District.

The victims were travelling in a white Honda Fit, also referred to as a Honda Jazz, with Lesotho number plates when they were ambushed by armed suspects.

Preliminary investigations indicate a green Mercedes-Benz, also with Lesotho number plates, allegedly stopped in front of the victims’ vehicle while another Honda Fit pulled up behind them.

“About six armed suspects reportedly exited the two vehicles and opened fire on the occupants of the Honda Fit,” said Free State police spokesperson Thabo Covane. “Upon police arrival at the scene, four victims were found fatally shot.

“A surviving passenger sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body and legs and was transported to the hospital for medical treatment. The suspects fled the scene in the two vehicles immediately after the shooting.”

At this stage, the motive for the attack remains unknown, and the identities of the deceased are yet to be confirmed. 

Police urge anyone who witnessed the incident or anyone with information to contact Capt. Sandile Dladla on 073 226 6787 or 082 466 8530. Or to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Meanwhile, police are searching for two suspects following a fatal shooting and robbery that occurred in the Meqheleng Township near Ficksburg on Thursday (7/5).

The police received a report of a shooting incident at a tuckshop in Katlehong, Meqheleng. Upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered a foreign national man, 39, with gunshot wounds to the back of the head and his left arm.

Emergency medical services on the scene certified the victim deceased.

“Preliminary investigations reveal the deceased had just arrived from his business premises in Zone 8 to collect his brother when he was allegedly approached by two males who engaged him in a brief quarrel,” said Covane.

Murder and robbery

“During the confrontation, a gunshot was heard, and the victim collapsed. The two suspects then fled the scene in the victim's white Toyota Camry.”

Ficksburg police are investigating cases of murder and robbery with a firearm. While the vehicle has been recovered, the suspects remain at large. 

OFM News/Zenande Mpame dg

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