The community of Sydenham has taken to social media to voice their anger over the increasing crime rate after a man was killed in a drive-by shooting in Keal Road on Monday night.
Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Nqobile Gwala, said Sydenham Police are investigating a murder case following the incident. “It is alleged that the man received a phone call and went outside where he was fatally shot by unknown suspects. The motive for the shooting is unknown,” said Lt Col Gwala. The Facebook page of the late Jared Johnstone, 35, who was shot dead, has been flooded with messages of condolences to his family and friends. Perrine Williams wrote: “Rest in peace cousin Jared Johnstone. Our sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family.”
Kim Solomon wrote: “A call to the Sydenham community, how many lives must we lose before we have enough or get involved. Prayer moves the hand of God and he is mighty to save and is able to deliver our community from all evil. Please I beg you, come and join us on Saturday as we call on God to heal, save and deliver Sydenham from the hands of the enemy. If people can also speak to all their pastors and priests and other religious leaders in the area and ask them if they can please get involved and join us that would be wonderful.” Residents have planned a prayer meeting to be held at Sydenham Heights, A Block, on Saturday at 12pm. Sydenham SAPS station commander, Colonel Ruth De Villiers, said the motive and suspects are not known at this stage. Col De Villiers is appealing to anyone with information regarding the incident to contact investigating officer, Detective Constable Ebrahim Sheik, on 031-202-2798.
