Westbury: The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), Fannie Masemola, has announced that police forces are working tirelessly to capture the suspects involved in the mass shooting that occurred on Tuesday in Westbury.

According to South African Government News Agency, police responded to the incident where six teenagers were shot. Two of the victims were declared dead upon arrival at the hospital, while four others are receiving medical care. Preliminary investigations suggest the shooting was gang-related, with the teenagers, aged between 14 and 19, targeted by suspects from a rival gang.

Commissioner Masemola visited Westbury in Gauteng on Tuesday night and received ongoing updates on the efforts to curb gang violence in the area and other hotspots in the province. He has instructed the provincial Commissioner of Gauteng to take firm action against the so-called “lolly lounges,” where children are reportedly skipping school to consume drugs.

Efforts are also underway to identify and arrest the owners of these lounges and their drug suppliers. The police are investigating the origins of the firearms used in these incidents, especially how they end up in the hands of young teenagers.

The Gauteng Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) is actively working in eight communities affected by gang activity, including Westbury and others like Langlaagte, Reiger Park, and Eldorado Park. Their operations from June to September 2025 have resulted in 176 arrests for various crimes, including murder, attempted murder, and possession of unlicensed firearms and drugs. Significant seizures have also been made, including firearms, ammunition, stolen vehicles, and large quantities of drugs.

Commissioner Masemola emphasized the importance of community cooperation in reporting suspicious activities to the SAPS Crime Stop number, ensuring confidentiality and anonymity for those providing information. The SAPS is committed to maintaining deployments and working with local communities to put an end to gang violence.