Two Teenagers Killed
Johannesburg – Two teenagers lost their lives and five others were rushed to hospital after a brutal shooting in Westbury, believed to be linked to gang rivalry. The attack happened on Tuesday afternoon in Croesus Street, sending shockwaves through the community already scarred by ongoing violence. Gauteng police have launched a full-scale hunt for the suspects, with no arrests made yet. As families mourn and the injured fight for recovery, calls grow louder for stronger action against the gangs that have plagued this area for years. This latest incident highlights the urgent need to tackle youth involvement in crime and bring peace to suburbs like Westbury.
The shooting adds to a grim tally of gang-related deaths in Gauteng, where communities live in fear of sudden attacks. Police say the victims, aged between 13 and 19, were caught off guard by armed men who fired without warning. With forensic teams combing the scene and intelligence units on the case, hopes are high for quick breakthroughs. But for now, the focus is on supporting the survivors and preventing more bloodshed in a neighbourhood crying out for change.
The Attack: Sudden and Deadly Ambush on Croesus Street
The incident unfolded around Tuesday afternoon when a group of seven teenagers was approached by four suspects on foot. Three of the men carried firearms and opened fire without a word, according to Gauteng Police spokesperson Brenda Muridili. “It is reported that the six, aged between 13 and 19 years, were shot at by three suspects believed to be from a rival gang,” she said, though later updates confirmed seven victims in total.
The teenagers were hit in a hail of bullets, with two dying at the scene. The five survivors, some in critical condition, were quickly taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Eyewitnesses described chaos as people ran for cover, with the suspects fleeing on foot after the attack. No motive has been confirmed beyond suspected gang ties, but locals point to ongoing turf wars between groups like the Fast Guns and Varados that have turned Westbury into a hotspot for violence.
This mirrors past incidents in the area, where drive-bys and targeted hits have claimed young lives. Just last month, similar clashes left several injured, showing how deeply rooted the problem is. Police believe the attackers came from a rival group, but details remain scarce as the investigation ramps up.
Police Response: Anti-Gang Unit Leads the Hunt
Gauteng police moved fast, with the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit arriving at the scene alongside SAPS Forensic Services. “The Provincial Anti-Gang Unit is on the scene together with SAPS Forensic Services,” Muridili confirmed. District Crime Intelligence has also been called in to help track the suspects, using tips from the community and any available footage.
No arrests have been made so far, but officers are following leads and urging anyone with information to come forward. The unit, known for busting gang networks, has made strides in past cases, but faces challenges like witness fear and deep gang loyalties. In recent years, they have seized weapons and made key arrests, yet violence persists.
Community leaders have praised the quick response but called for more visible policing. “We need patrols every day, not just after something happens,” one resident said. With forensic experts gathering evidence like shell casings and possible CCTV clips, the probe aims to bring the culprits to book and deter future attacks.
Background: Westbury’s Ongoing Battle with Gang Violence
Westbury, a suburb west of Johannesburg, has long struggled with gang activity rooted in poverty, joblessness, and drug trade. Groups like the Fast Guns and Varados fight over turf, pulling in young people with promises of protection or quick cash. This has led to a cycle of revenge killings, with teenagers often caught in the crossfire.
Over the years, protests have rocked the area, with residents demanding better safety. In 2018, massive marches called for army help, leading to some government steps like more police and youth programmes. But progress has been slow, with shootings still common. Stats show Gauteng leads in gang crimes, with Westbury a key flashpoint.
Experts blame easy access to guns and weak community ties, urging more focus on schools and jobs to steer kids away from gangs. This incident, involving such young victims, underscores the crisis, as families grieve and wonder how to keep their children safe.
Community Impact: Calls for Change Amid Grief
The shooting has left Westbury reeling, with families in mourning and the injured facing long recoveries. Hospitals report the survivors are stable but traumatised, with some needing surgery for gunshot wounds. Community groups are stepping in with counselling and support, while churches hold prayers for peace.
Locals fear retaliation could spark more violence, calling on leaders to act. “Our kids can’t play outside without risk,” one parent shared. Political voices, like from the DA and EFF, have slammed slow government responses, demanding tougher anti-gang laws and better funding for police.
🔴 Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 115 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition of Central News | Headline: Ngwathe Municipality Refuses to Back Down, Heads to Supreme Court of Appeal
Download Here:
Direct PDF File Here:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Central-News-Issue-115-1.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube