Eastern Cape police have opened a triple murder investigation after the bodies of three young men, all with gunshot wounds, were discovered in bushes in Peace Village, KwaNobuhle, on Monday morning.
The grim discovery was made opposite Thuthula Street at approximately 9.35am on 3 August 2026, after police were alerted to the scene.
Officers arrived to find the lifeless bodies of three males lying in the bushes. Each had sustained gunshot wounds.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana confirmed that a case has been registered and that specialised investigators have been assigned to the matter.
“SAPS has launched a murder investigation after the bodies of three males, all with gunshot wounds, were discovered in bushes opposite Thuthula Street, Peace Village, in Kwanobuhle on the morning of 3 August 2026,” said Gantana.
Victims Identified
The victims were identified as 17‑year‑old Alwaba Toba, 20‑year‑old Ayabonga Jantjie and 22‑year‑old Bonginkosi Matunbu.
Their identities were later confirmed by family members at the scene.
The presence of relatives at the discovery site added to the anguish as news of the killings spread through the area.
Motive Unknown
Police said the circumstances surrounding the deaths remain unclear, and investigators are working to determine what led to the killings.
“the motive for the killings is not yet known, and the suspects remain at large.”
Authorities have not indicated whether the three victims were targeted or whether the incident may be linked to other criminal activity in the area.
A case of murder, comprising three counts, has been opened at SAPS KwaNobuhle. The investigation has been assigned to the SAPS Serious and Violent Crime Investigation (SVCI) Unit.
The involvement of the specialised unit underscores the seriousness of the case as detectives seek to piece together events leading up to the deaths.
Appeal for Information
Investigators are appealing to members of the public to assist with information that could shed light on the circumstances of the triple killing.
“Police are appealing to anyone who may have information that could assist in the investigation to come forward,” the statement said.
No arrests have been made at this stage.
Residents of Peace Village woke up to a heavy police presence in the area on Monday morning as officers combed the scene for evidence. The discovery of the bodies has heightened tension in the community, with many calling for swift action to bring those responsible to justice.
As detectives continue their probe, police have urged anyone with information to contact SAPS KwaNobuhle or provide anonymous tips through official crime reporting channels.
The investigation remains ongoing.
