Eastern Cape Community Safety MEC Xolile Nqatha has expressed concern over a resurgence of mass shootings and violent crime in the Nelson Mandela Bay District following a deadly shooting in KwaDwesi, Gqeberha, that left four people dead and two others injured.
The incident occurred on Saturday night in the Govan Mbeki area, where armed suspects allegedly stormed a residence and demanded money from the occupants.
According to preliminary reports, the suspects forced the victims to open their banking applications before opening fire on those inside the house. Four people were killed and two others sustained injuries during the attack.
The shooting has renewed concerns about escalating criminal activity in the district, with provincial authorities warning that such incidents threaten community safety and security.
MEC spokesperson Makhaya Komisa said police are actively pursuing those responsible and remain committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
"The recent rise in horrific attacks and criminal activities poses a serious threat to our communities and seeks to undermine the efforts of the South African Police Service in combating crime in the district," Komisa said.
"We want to send a strong message to criminals that no amount of intimidation will deter SAPS from protecting the citizens of this province."
Komisa said the provincial government and law enforcement agencies are intensifying efforts to combat crime and restore public confidence in affected communities.
"The government, together with SAPS, is intensifying crime-fighting strategies to protect the citizens of the Nelson Mandela District," he added.
Police investigations into the shooting are ongoing, and authorities have urged anyone with information that could assist in the arrest of the suspects to come forward.