PORT ELIZABETH – In strengthening the fight against gang violence in the Northern areas of Port Elizabeth, the Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Liziwe Ntshinga immediately implemented the 72 hour turnaround strategy and has called for swift action after a 6 year old girl was hit by a stray bullet in Fitchardt Street in Gelvandale yesterday afternoon, 13 December 2019.

It is alleged that on Friday, 13 December 2019 at about 13:45, a 28-year-old gang member was walking from a shop in Fitchardt Street when he saw the three suspects emerging from another Street. They started shooting at him and during this time, a 6 year old girl was struck by a bullet in her leg. She was playing in her front yard of her house in Fitchardt Street. The suspects fled on foot and the intended target was not injured.

The child was taken to hospital, treated and discharged.

Maximum mobilisation of all resources were utilised and on Saturday, 14 December 2019 at about 09:45 the first suspect, aged 23 was arrested at a house in Leith Street in Helenvale. The suspect was arrested and detained.

Within two hours of the first arrest, the other two suspects, aged 23 and 24 was found at a tavern in William Slammert Drive in Bloemendal. Both suspect were arrested.

All three suspects are expected to appear in the Port Elizabeth magistrates’ court on Tuesday, 17 December 2019 on two charges of attempted murder.

Lt Gen Ntshinga has reiterated that ‘the swift reaction of the 72 hour activation plan is a clear indication of our commitment in eradicating gang violence in the Northern areas of Port Elizabeth. We will not allow such fearlessness from these criminals especially when our innocent children become victims. We will be working closely with the prosecuting authorities to ensure that these criminals remain behind bars.

Source: South African Police Service