Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Cachalia Visits Westbury After Mass Shooting, Moves to Bolster Anti-Gang Unit as SANDF Rollout Slows

Police report progress with arrests expected soon as the military support plan is phased in for role clarity.

Overview

  • Two people were killed and three others were wounded, including a 15‑month‑old baby, in a 5 March shooting at Lark Spur Court and Jacaranda Court in Westbury.
  • Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia met bereaved families and visited the injured in hospital during Saturday’s visit to the area.
  • Cachalia called for strengthening the Anti‑Gang Unit and said he will convene community structures to support efforts against entrenched gang violence.
  • Police say the investigation is at an advanced stage with arrests expected soon, though the motive remains unknown and no suspects have been detained.
  • Authorities say broader SANDF support is being introduced more slowly to train soldiers on policing roles, drawing public criticism from local councillor Marilyne Smouse who demanded a clear deployment timeline.