A grieving Mamelodi family is searching for answers after two young cousins were shot and killed in what police believe was a targeted attack in Mamelodi East over the weekend.
The victims, identified as Tshiamo Moramaga, 22, and Baleseng Moramaga, 21, were gunned down in Extension 17 on Sunday night. A third victim survived the shooting and is receiving treatment in a local hospital.
Police have arrested a 38-year-old man in connection with the double murder. According to spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko, the suspect was tracked down and apprehended at a Pretoria filling station on Monday following a joint operation by the Gauteng Provincial Serious and Violent Crime Unit, Provincial Crime Intelligence, and Mamelodi East detectives.
“The suspect faces two counts of murder and one of attempted murder. He is expected to appear before the Mamelodi Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday,” Sibeko confirmed.
For the Moramaga family, the arrest has brought little relief. Nthabiseng Buthelezi, the victims’ cousin, said the family remains in shock and confused about the circumstances.
“We don’t know what really happened. We just received a call saying they were shot and killed. We saw on social media that someone was arrested, but the family hasn’t been officially briefed,” Buthelezi said.
The two cousins will be laid to rest this weekend in Limpopo.
Community members in Mamelodi East have expressed anger and frustration over the rise in violent crime, calling for stronger police visibility and safety measures.
“These young women had their whole lives ahead of them. The violence in our townships is out of control, and it feels like nothing changes,” said one resident, who asked not to be named.
Police investigations into the motive are ongoing.
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