By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The South African Police Services (SAPS) has confirmed that 2 teenagers have been shot dead, 4 wounded in a mass shooting in Westbury, Johannesburg.
Fullview learnt that the incident may be linked to gang violence.
Gauteng police spokesperson, Brenda Muridili says, “The police in Sophiatown responded to shooting incident in Westbury where six teenagers were shot. The incident occurred in Croesus Street in Westbury at about 1pm.”
Two of them were declared dead on arrival and four are receiving medical attention. It is reported that the six, aged between 14 and 19 years, were shot at by three suspects believed to be from a rival gang, said Muridili.
The SAPS Provincial Anti-Gang Unit with Forensic Services were still on the scene.
Gauteng deputy police commissioner Major General Fred Kekana says three of the four suspects involved in a mass shooting are known.
Kekana confirmed the update during a media briefing at the crime scene.
Kekana said the wounded victims were currently receiving treatment in hospital. He said due to the severity of their injuries, community members transported the victims themselves instead of waiting for ambulances.
“Because of the severity, the community felt they could not wait for an ambulance. They immediately moved them to hospital to receive medical attention,” he said.
Kekana confirmed that police had obtained video footage showing the suspects’ faces as they arrived and fled the scene.
“As soon as our teams locate them, we’ll ensure they are taken into custody and brought to justice,” he said.
Kekana confirmed that the shooting was gang-related and involved two rival groups.
“Yes, it is gang-related. They just came, provoked, and shot at those who were sitting and smoking. That’s what happened, “he said.
He added that over 20 rounds were fired at the scene, and the investigation was still ongoing.
Westbury has been plagued by gang-related shootings for years.
In June, a child was shot dead, allegedly by gang members who continue to roam the area armed, according to distressed residents. The shooting took place around 9am on Crema Street on 2 June 2025.
Residents expressed their frustration over the incident after calls to emergency services went unanswered. South Africa has one of the highest murder rates in the world, averaging about 60 a day.