By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
City of Johannesburg chief whip Sithembiso Zungu was shot and injured in an attack that claimed the life of a Rand Water executive.
The incident occurred in full view of school pupils and officials during a back-to-school campaign in Zakariyya Park, Johannesburg.
Rand Water was hosting the campaign to hand out uniforms and invited the City of Joburg to attend.
Fullview understands the shooting was a hit on the chief whip of council – Zungu, who made enemies after a video trended of him last year hijacking a Department of Basic Education event.
Zungu is currently in hospital receiving treatment.
The mayor of Johannesburg, Kabelo Gwamanda, condemned the shooting. He said the city’s social services department will provide psychosocial support to the community and children who witnessed the incident.
“This incident once more gives us a shattering impression of the lawlessness and brazenness with which criminal elements terrorise our society,” said Gwamanda.
“To have such a tragic incident occur in broad daylight and in the presence of community members and children is beyond one’s comprehension and belief.
The man who opened fire at the gathering fled the scene in a getaway car that had been parked outside the venue.
Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said several suspects entered the hall and opened fire before fleeing.
“Two people were declared dead on the scene while three others were taken to hospital with gunshot wounds.
“The motive of the shooting is unknown at this stage,” Nevhuhulwi added.
Meanwhile in a statement released on Monday afternoon, Rand Water said one of its executives was among the dead.
Its spokesperson, Makenosi Maroo, added the incident happened during one of Rand Water’s back-to-school campaigns.
“Rand Water’s policy prohibits the organisation from releasing the employee’s name without the family’s consent.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact the crime stop line at 08600 10111 or anonymously report tip-offs.