ALICE – The rural community of Upper Ncera, outside Alice, has been left reeling after two elderly sisters, aged 75 and 85, were shot and killed in their home during the early hours of Tuesday morning.
According to police, unknown assailants forced entry into the four-roomed house while the women were asleep and opened fire, fatally wounding both in the upper body. The motive for the attack remains unknown, and no suspects have been arrested.
Eastern Cape Acting Police Commissioner, Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, condemned the killings as “a heinous act of violence against vulnerable members of society,” vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The double murder has shocked the close-knit community, with many struggling to comprehend the brutality of the crime.
In a show of solidarity, Raymond Mhlaba Executive Mayor Cllr Nomhle Sango, along with Amahlathi Local Municipality Mayor Cllr Nomakosazana Nongqayi and other municipal leaders, visited the grieving Magida family on Wednesday.
“This era we live in is devoid of reason,” said Mayor Sango during the emotional visit. “How does one justify shooting two elderly women who posed no threat and couldn’t even defend themselves from a slap?”
She called for unity in the face of such tragedies and urged communities to work together in building a safer society.
Police have urged anyone with information to contact Detective Lieutenant Colonel Nolusindiso Dywili at 079 520 3380 or SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
By Alfred Breakfast