Man linked to Phillipi East massacre to make court appearance

A 20-year-old man is expected to appear in the Mitchells Plain Magistrates Court on Monday, in connection with the Phillipi East massacre, which claimed nine lives.

The suspect was arrested at his home in Phillipi at the weekend following an intelligence-led operation.

Authorities said the suspect, along with another gunman, opened fire at an illegal liquor outlet in January.

Police spokesperson Ndakhe Gwala said the attack is believed to be connected to ongoing extortion in the area.

"In the early hours of Friday, operation lockdown 3 members closed in on one of the suspects involved in a mass shooting. He will make his first court appearance in the Mitchells Plain Magistrates Court.”