Ekurhuleni – A chilling scene of violence unfolded in Ivory Park Extension 7 on Sunday night, 21 July, leaving a family shattered and a community reeling in shock. Three members of the same family, including a 17-year-old schoolboy, were brutally gunned down in their home, allegedly over an outstanding debt.
The victims, identified as two men aged 36 and 17, and a 28-year-old woman, were found by emergency services with multiple gunshot wounds. The 36-year-old man sustained severe injuries to his torso, while the other male and the female victim suffered upper body wounds.
The incident, which has sent ripples of fear through the neighbourhood, occurred after the assailant forcefully entered the room where the family had gathered, kicking down the door before opening fire. Neighbours, alerted by the deafening gunshots, immediately contacted the police.
The 17-year-old, a pupil at a local Thembisa school, was tragically killed before his classmates and teachers even knew of the tragedy. The news of his death has sent a wave of grief through the school community, leaving many struggling to comprehend the senseless loss of a young life.
While the motive behind the shooting remains shrouded in mystery, whispers of an unpaid debt have begun to circulate through the community. Witnesses reported seeing a person, believed to be connected to the outstanding debt, fleeing the scene in a vehicle with an unregistered number plate.
"The community is in disbelief over the violence that has shattered the peace of our neighbourhood," said a resident, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal. "This was a family, not just individuals. They were all loved and respected."
The incident has sparked a sense of unease and fear amongst residents, who are now questioning their safety and the security of their homes.
"It's a terrible thing, to have your life taken away over money," said another resident, visibly shaken. "We are all scared, we don't know who to trust anymore."
The police, who have opened a case of multiple murder, are urging anyone with information regarding the incident or the suspects to come forward.
"We urge anyone with information regarding the incident or the suspects to come forward," said Ekurhuleni district police spokeswoman Captain Neldah Sekgobela. "A case of multiple murder has been opened."
The brutal murder of this family has brought the issue of 'skoloto' – a term often used to describe informal lending practices – back into the spotlight. While 'skoloto' can provide a lifeline for those in need of financial assistance, it can also be a breeding ground for violence and exploitation, particularly when debts go unpaid.
"It's a vicious cycle," said a social worker who works with families affected by 'skoloto'. "People are desperate for money, they turn to 'skoloto' and then find themselves trapped in a spiral of debt and fear."
