In a shocking turn of events, the authorities have apprehended three final suspects related to the tragic mass shooting that occurred in Westbury, leaving two individuals dead and five others injured. The Gauteng police have confirmed that this trio, comprised of young individuals aged between 17 and 20, was captured on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, after being turned in by their own parents and legal representatives.
Among these suspects, the 17-year-old has been placed in a safe location in line with the principles of the Child Justice Act, while the older suspects, aged 19 and 20, are currently in custody.
Brigadier Brenda Muridili, the spokesperson for the Gauteng police, reported, "They are charged with two counts of murder and five counts of attempted murder."
Earlier this week, on Monday, a 36-year-old man, who is believed to orchestrate the entire attack, made an appearance in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court. Muridili revealed that this key suspect was arrested in Westbury last Friday and is suspected to be the main brain behind the horrifying shooting incident.
The incident itself was tragic. On October 21, 2025, two teenagers—18-year-old Tigan du Plessis and 17-year-old Diegan Ryters—lost their lives in a rapid exchange of gunfire on Croesus Street. Eyewitness accounts provided by the police indicate that seven teens, varying in age from 13 to 19, were approached on foot by four assailants when the barrage of bullets began. While two were killed on-site, the remaining five were severely injured and transported to a medical facility for urgent care.
In an ongoing investigation, authorities have also detained a 20-year-old suspect believed to be involved in the same violent encounter.
Muridili continued to reveal that the three new suspects will appear alongside the two earlier arrested individuals in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, November 6, 2025. All five individuals will face similar charges: two counts of murder and five counts of attempted murder.
This situation raises serious concerns about youth violence and gang activities in communities. But here's where it gets controversial: What does this awful event say about our society’s ability to protect its youngsters? Are we doing enough to target the root causes of such violence?
It would be intriguing to hear your thoughts on this matter. Do you agree with how law enforcement is handling these cases? Or do you believe different approaches are necessary? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments.
