Update

GEORGE NEWS - Four suspects linked to a shoot-out in Thembalethu on Sunday evening, 23 May, are still at large. 

The shooting took place when four unknown gunmen allegedly opened fire on a group of seven people who were having a braai outside a house in Asazani, Zone 6, at approximately 19:25.

According to Southern Cape police spokesperson, Capt Malcolm Pojie, a vehicle stopped outside the home and armed men started shooting at the group.

All seven victims, four women and three men, sustained gunshot wounds and were hospitalised. Five have since been discharged and two are still recovering in hospital.

According to information, a firearm linked to the shooting was found outside the house after the suspects fled.

"The firearm was confiscated as evidence, together with several spent cartridges that were found on the scene. The items will be sent for ballistic tests to confirm whether they could be linked to the shooting as well as previous crimes," said Pojie.

Pojie could not confirm rumours of the incident being related to extortion. However, an informed source told George Herald that this incident is believed to be a revenge attack after a shooting in Thembalethu in February this year, which is linked to recent cases of extortion that have plagued the area for some months now.

Anyone with information is asked to please contact the investigation officer, Sgt Xolani Tukulula of the Thembalethu detectives on 044 802 8943 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. All information will be dealt with confidentially.

Following Sunday night's shooting a quiet, subdued atmosphere hung over the street in Asazani where the shooting took place.