Eastern Cape healthcare couple gunned down in their home
According to SAPS, the victims, a 39-year-old woman and a 41-year-old man, were ambushed in a brutal attack at around 19:50.
The man had just arrived home and was still in his vehicle when two armed men in balaclavas held him at gunpoint. The suspects allegedly demanded to see his wife and forced him into the house.
Once inside, the gunmen called out for the woman. When she came out of the bedroom, they opened fire, killing her on the spot. They then shot and killed her husband.
The gunmen spared the domestic worker inside the house. Police have opened a double murder case and are appealing to the public for information.
The victims were employees at St Elizabeth Hospital, the woman a professional nurse, and the man a deputy director in the Eastern Cape Department of Health.
Health MEC Ntandokazi Capa expressed deep shock and sadness at the killings.
'Losing a life is one too many. It is even more difficult when a health professional is involved. They play a crucial role in serving our communities,' Capa said.
'These colleagues have departed at a time when the country relied heavily on their expertise as professionals who were serving their citizens with commitment and integrity,' she said.
What steps must authorities take to protect frontline healthcare workers, especially in communities plagued by violent crime with no clear motive?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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