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Preparations are underway for a mass funeral to honor the six victims of the tragic Qumbu massacre, where a shooting incident last week left the community in shock. Scheduled for Saturday, October 19, 2024, the service will take place in Godini village, Qumbu, organized by the Eastern Cape Provincial Government in collaboration with local businesses and stakeholders.
Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane expressed profound sorrow over the incident, stating, “We are deeply saddened by this devastating loss of lives in our province. Such brutality has no place in our society, and we will not stand for the criminality that shatters our communities and disturbs the peace.”
The massacre occurred when armed men targeted community patrollers at a local school as they prepared for their evening patrols. Alongside the six fatalities, four others sustained injuries and were rushed to the hospital.
In response, the Provincial Government is coordinating with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. One suspect has already been arrested and appeared at the Qumbu Magistrate Court, where he was remanded in custody. A bail hearing is set for October 16, 2024, and investigations are ongoing to locate additional suspects.
The government extends its deepest condolences to the victims’ families and emphasizes the need for community cooperation in providing any information related to the incident. Premier Mabuyane and other officials will attend the mass funeral to pay their respects.
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