Child, 3, dies in ‘hit’, suspects in cop clothes

TWO teenagers are among five suspects who have been arrested in connection with the murder of a 3-year-old girl in Heather Park in Eersterivier.

Concerned Residents Against Crime spokesperson Julian Unthank said the suspects were allegedly clad in police uniform when they carried out what is believed to be a hit at an incorrect address.

“Residents in the area are in complete shock because despite there being ongoing gang warfare in the area, it has not yet claimed the life of an innocent child. We are saddened by this and want a thorough police investigation.

“What is even more shocking is that witnesses say the suspects were seen in police uniforms when they went to the house and opened fire. Where did they get them from? We know police cannot be everywhere all the time, but the incident happened on Tuesday night. Where were the police patrols?” asked Unthank.

Police spokesperson Novela Potelwa said the claims that suspects were in items of police uniform formed part of the investigation.

“It’s very important to understand whether these suspects were witnessed in police uniform. Were they seen in uniform from head to toe, or were they seen in police uniform items? We need to determine which items they were,” said Potelwa.

Potelwa said the girl died of her head injury at hospital.

“It is alleged that three unknown suspects stopped in front of a house in Normandie Street in Heather Park at 8.30pm and started shooting randomly. As a consequence, the 3-year-old died in hospital after being hit in the head,” said Potelwa.

The suspects have been charged with possession of illegal firearms.