Man detained over the mass shooting in Westbury that claimed the lives of two teenagers

A 20-year-old man has been taken into custody in relation to the Westbury mass shooting, which claimed the lives of two teenagers and injured five more, according to Gauteng police.

After receiving "crucial information" from the Crime Intelligence Unit regarding the whereabouts of one of the suspects involved in the shooting, members of the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) arrested the suspect on Wednesday, October 29.

Gauteng police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili said that after a thorough briefing, the AGU operationalised the information received, which led to the successful identification of the suspect’s whereabouts at a high school in Diepkloof.

“Upon arrival, AGU members positively identified the 20-year-old suspect and placed him under arrest,” Muridili said.

He is expected to appear before the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court on Friday, October 31, 2025.

Muridili said investigations are ongoing to track down the remaining suspects. 

She confirmed that two of the five injured victims have been discharged from hospital.

“The SAPS urges the public to assist in the investigation by providing any relevant information regarding the whereabouts of the suspects by calling the SAPS Crime Stop line at 08600 10111. Callers can remain anonymous,” she added.

The mass shooting, which claimed the lives of two teenagers, took place around 1p.m. last week on Tuesday on Croesus Street.

According to the police, four suspects, three of whom were armed, opened fire without warning on a group of seven teenagers.

The deceased have been identified as 18-year-old Tigan du Plessis and 17-year-old Diegan Ryters.

Police previously confirmed that they are aware of the suspects’ identities and that investigations are continuing.

simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za

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