Mahikeng Crime Activist Thato Molosankwe Shot Dead In North West

Police have confirmed that Mahikeng crime activist and traditional healer Thato Molosankwe has been shot dead in the North West province.

Molosankwe was reportedly attacked at his home in Lomanyaneng during the early hours of Wednesday morning.

The shooting has sparked a major police investigation, with senior law enforcement officials ordering maximum resources to track down those responsible.

Police Confirm Fatal Shooting In Lomanyaneng

South African Police Service spokesperson Captain Majang Skalkie confirmed the incident.

“North West police confirms incident. The incident occurred today in the morning,” Skalkie said.

Police spokesperson Colonel Adel Myburgh said Molosankwe sustained multiple gunshot wounds during the attack.

SAPS Launches Manhunt For Thato Molosankwe Killers

According to Myburgh, Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane has instructed the North West Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Ryno Naidoo, to deploy extensive resources to investigate the murder.

“The Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (Saps), Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, has directed the North West Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Ryno Naidoo, to ensure maximum resources are deployed to hunt down the killers of vocal Mahikeng-born crime activist and traditional healer, Mr Thato Molosankwe,” Myburgh said.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Three Suspected Criminals Killed In Shootout With Police In Durban

“Lieutenant General Dimpane has strongly condemned the brutal murder and assured the community that no stone will be left unturned until those responsible are found and brought to book.”

Police Describe Molosankwe As Community-Minded Activist

Police said Molosankwe played an active role in strengthening relationships between law enforcement and communities in Mahikeng.

Myburgh described him as a community-minded individual who regularly assisted police efforts in the area.

The Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit has since taken over the investigation.

Police have appealed to anyone with information related to the shooting to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit anonymous tip-offs through the MySAPS App.

Three Kidnapping Suspects Killed In Separate KZN Shootout

Meanwhile, three suspected kidnappers were killed in a separate shootout with police in KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday morning.

The incident took place in Mariannhill after officers acted on intelligence linked to a kidnapping and fraud case in Greenwood Park.

Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said the suspects allegedly attempted to flee after police tried to stop their vehicle.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Five-Year-Old Kiara Mohan Dies In Newcastle Skip Bin Tragedy

“Police collected intelligence about the whereabouts of the suspects who were wanted in connection with a Greenwood Park case of kidnapping and fraud, as well as being in illegal possession of firearms,” Netshiunda said.

“Police spotted the suspects driving along Milky Way Road and attempted to stop their vehicle. The suspect defied the police’s instructions and sped off. Police gave chase, and during the operation, a shootout ensued.”

Investigations into both incidents are continuing.