Marikana families seek justice following fatal shebeen shooting

The families of victims from the recent mass shooting in the Marikana informal settlement say they are struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.

Four people, including a 39-year-old woman, were shot and killed at a local shebeen on Saturday night. Four men linked to the murders were arrested and appeared in court earlier on Wednesday.

One of the deceased women is believed to be the owner of the shebeen. She leaves behind two children, aged 13 and 21. Her cousin was also among those killed in the attack.

A family member, who asked not to be named, told Eyewitness News that the family has lost two of its most important members.

“We’re heartbroken because both of them were breadwinners. Now we’re left with nothing,” they said.

Another relative noted that the tragedy has not only affected the families directly involved but has left the entire community in mourning.

“There are lots of families she was helping, so this is hard for everyone,” the relative added.

The families said they are now praying for justice to take its course.

Suspects to remain behind bars

Meanwhile, the four men linked to the shooting will remain behind bars for at least another week.

Simphiwe Gova, Siphosethu Thembani, Ayakha Sigidi and Anele Williams were arrested for the attack and charged with murder, attempted murder, and possession of unlicensed firearms.

They appeared in the Athlone Magistrate's Court on Wednesday.

State prosecutor Nwabisa Sishuba said the suspects are believed to be part of an extortion syndicate.

"Your Worship, there's an indication that Accuse 4 was the one who instructed them to shoot, Accuse 1 then shot Sylvia, the owner of the shebeen. At this time, Your Worship, already 3 males had already been shot, and witnesses were already taken to the hospital. The indication, Your Worship, is that the motive is extortion."