The culprits, part of a group of approximately ten heavily armed suspects, targeted a fuel station, where they threatened staff at gunpoint, detonated explosives to access the drop safe, and made away with cash and cigarettes. Their crime spree extended to another filling station and a liquor store in a nearby shopping complex, where they seized more cash, cigarettes, expensive beverages, and various items.
Amidst the chaos, the suspects fired indiscriminately, tragically resulting in the death of Ms. Megan Griesel, who was alone in her vehicle, which bore the brunt of the gunfire. The incident was promptly reported to the police, leading to the formation of a Provincial Task Team. Thanks to vital information from the community, the investigators located and arrested the first suspect in Masoyi, outside White River, on November 1, 2023. The second suspect was apprehended in Kanyamazane on November 2, 2023, and was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm with ammunition.
Both suspects have appeared in court, and the investigation remains active to capture the remaining perpetrators. In order to safeguard the integrity of the ongoing investigation, the identities of the suspects are being kept confidential.
Reports by SAPS
