CRIME SCENE: Wesbank, Malmesbury: The South African Police Service (SAPS) have made a major breakthrough following a mass shooting incident pm 24 June 2026.

According to SAPS the relentless pursuit of suspects involved in gang-related violence has yielded positive results with the arrest of three suspects in connection with a double murder and multiple attempted murders in Wesbank.

“The arrests follow an intensive investigation by detectives attached to the Western Cape Anti-Gang Unit into a shooting incident in which Ralph Andrew Philander (57) and Riaan Henrico Goliath (41) were fatally wounded. Three other victims sustained gunshot wounds during the attack and were admitted to hospital for medical treatment,” said SAPS

The suspects, aged 25, 26 and 31-years were arrested on charges of murder and attempted murder and will appear in the Malmesbury Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 20 July 2026.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the incident was gang-related and forms part of an ongoing conflict between rival gangs operating in the area.

In a separate crime prevention operation aimed at disrupting gang-related criminality in Wesbank, the Anti-Gang Unit and Crime Intelligence conducted a search at a premises in Tintinkie Street, Malmesbury.

SAPS said they confiscated a gas gun and a revolver-style imitation firearm. Upon further inspection, police discovered a live .22 calibre round concealed in the chamber of the imitation firearm. No arrests have been made in connection with the seizure at this stage. The items were booked into the SAPS 13 register for further investigation, and an enquiry has been registered.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the Western Cape, Major General Luyanda Damoyi, commended the members involved in the investigation and subsequent arrests for their dedication and perseverance.

Damoyi also expressed his appreciation to community members who came forward with information and assisted police in their efforts to root out gangsterism and create safer neighbourhoods.

Also read: Two killed in another mass shooting – Crime Scene Report