Police in Welkom have launched a manhunt following the fatal shooting of a 37-year-old man in Rheederpark on Sunday morning.
According to a police report, officers were dispatched to a murder scene at approximately 09:00 on 8 March 2026. Upon arrival, they discovered the victim, an African male, suffering from three gunshot wounds—one to the head and two to the right thigh. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the victim was walking through an open field with friends during the early hours of the morning. The group was allegedly confronted by a band of men who opened fire, striking the victim fatally.
Authorities suggest the shooting stemmed from a dispute that took place earlier that evening at a local liquor establishment. It is alleged that the altercation involved two groups of herdsmen arguing over communal grazing pastures.
No arrests have been made yet. Police have opened a case of murder and are appealing to anyone with information to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.