By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Gauteng police have launched a manhunt for suspects after two people were shot dead and three others wounded in Eldorado Park, southwest of Johannesburg.
The shooting incident, which is suspected to be related to gangsterism in the area, occurred on Thursday evening.
Since 1 December, 13 people have been killed and five injured within walking distance of the area.
The flats are in one of the poorest areas in the Johannesburg suburb, which is notorious for gang violence and a haven for drug peddlers.
On Tuesday afternoon, residents fed up with the warfare gathered to discuss ways to bring peace to the area.
Eldorado Park has always seen gang violence, but residents say there has been a recent escalation since the leaders of two gangs were killed last year.
They say rival gangs are now fighting a turf war for control of the area.
It is believed that drugs are peddled from the flats, but some homes in and around the flats were searched for drugs on Tuesday and nothing was found.
By the time the Anti-Gang Unit went to the homes, police had been visible in the area for a few hours.
Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Mavela Masondo said police were looking for those responsible for Thursday night’s killings.
“The victims were inside the flats when the suspects shot at them through the window. Two of the victims were certified dead on the scene, while three were taken to the local medical centre for treatment.
He said, the motive for the shooting cannot be confirmed at this stage, although it is suspected to be related to gangsterism in the area.
Police are appealing to anyone who might have information that can help in the investigation or assist in the apprehension of the suspects to call the nearest police station or crime stop at 08600 10111.