Police in the Eastern Cape have opened a triple murder investigation after three young men were found fatally shot in a bushy area in Kwanobuhle, with investigators continuing to search for those responsible.
The bodies were discovered on the morning of 3 August 2026 in bushes opposite Thuthula Street in Peace Village, prompting a major response from the South African Police Service (SAPS).
According to police, officers were alerted to the scene shortly after 9:35am, where they confirmed that all three victims had died from gunshot wounds.
The deceased were identified as Alwaba Toba (17), Ayabonga Jantjie (20) and Bonginkosi Matunbu (22). Their identities were later confirmed by family members at the scene.
Police continue search for suspects
Eastern Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana said investigators have not yet established a motive for the killings and no arrests have been made.
The case has been registered as a triple murder at SAPS Kwanobuhle and has been assigned to the Serious and Violent Crime Investigation (SVCI) Unit, which is leading efforts to identify and apprehend those involved.
Police have appealed to members of the public who may have information that could assist investigators to come forward.
Anyone with relevant information can contact the investigating officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sithole, on 082 457 2812. Anonymous information may also be submitted through the Crime Stop hotline or via the MySAPS mobile application.
The investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to establish the circumstances surrounding the killings.
Political murder investigations make progress in Gauteng
In a separate development, SAPS announced significant progress in two high-profile political murder investigations in Gauteng.
The Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) recently arrested suspects linked to the murders of ANC councillor Thabang Masemola and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) member Aaron Makola during separate intelligence-led operations.
Masemola was killed in Mamelodi East in July 2025. Police have since arrested alleged hitman Vusimuzi Champ Gebuza, 41, together with a female accomplice. Authorities indicated that additional charges could still be brought against Gebuza as investigations continue.
In the Makola investigation, three suspects aged 40, 42 and 44 have also been arrested. They are scheduled to appear before the Delmas Magistrate’s Court on 5 August 2026.
Acting National Commissioner Puleng Dimpane welcomed the arrests, describing them as an important step in dismantling organised hit squads and strengthening public confidence in law enforcement.
Police said investigations into all three murder cases remain active.
Source: South African Police Service (SAPS)