By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
SA Police Service in Gauteng have launched a manhunt for an unknown number of suspects who are believed to have shot and killed a 5-year-old boy, Ditebogo Junior Phalane during a hijacking.
The men hijacked the little boy’s father in Soshanguve on Friday.
Police spokesperson Mavela Masondo said the boy was rushed to hospital, where he was certified dead on arrival.
“It is reported that the father was arriving home at approximately 22:30, driving a white Toyota bakkie, when the child went out to welcome him home.
“Police are appealing to anyone who might have information that can help in the investigation or assist in the apprehension of the suspects to please call the nearest police station or call crime stop on 08600 10111”.
Mavela said a case of murder and hijacking has been opened.
Family Spokesperson, Gift Makoti says, both the parents and the two remaining siblings are shattered.
“The overall mood of the family … they are utterly distraught. They are inconsolable! The community is in shock. The close relatives don’t believe it and it still feels like a movie. The family is hoping for the perpetrators to be caught and be brought to book, so they can face the full might of the law. But the family is really pleading with the community, it’s pleading with anyone who might have more details surrounding this matter to come forward to try help out the police, try apprehend these guys, “says Makoti.
This incident comes after Gauteng provincial government introduced e-panic button app that was lauched by Gauteng Community Safety MEC Faith Mazibuko in Tshwane.
Mazibuko said that 10 security companies are working alongside law enforcement to ensure a swift response to the panic button alerts.
As part of the crime-fighting initiative, the Tshwane Metro Police Department collaborated with Crime Prevention Wardens from the SAPS and Gauteng Provincial Community Safety Patrollers to enhance safety.
Mazibuko said the e-panic button offers a range of features that makes it an ideal solution for government departments, including the ability to pinpoint the location of the emergency; connect directly to emergency services; and provide real-time updates to first responders quickly and accurately.
She said the government will also be rolling out CCTV cameras that will serve as another eye in case the user takes longer to press the panic button.