BIN PICKERS SHOT DEAD

OTTERY was rocked by the murder of two bin pickers on Thursday morning.

The two men, aged 34 and 39, were frequently seen in the area on bin collection days and while skarreling for something valuable on the corner of Elzeth and Woodlands Roads just after dawn, they were gunned down in cold blood.

According to residents, the two were approached by five men, before one was shot dead innie pad and the other was found dead in a flower bed of a nearby house as he tried to escape.

Lansdowne Community Policing Forum (CPF) Chairperson Naz Karodia said that two men were from Hanover Park.

Karodia reported: “Two coloured males, known to reside in Hanover Park and frequently seen in the area on bin collection days, were fatally shot.

“The exact circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear at this stage. Residents reportedly heard several gunshots before discovering one of the victims in the street and the other within a nearby residential property.”

She added that cops from Lansdowne SAPS are investigating the case.

It has not yet been confirmed whether the incident is gang-related, however the CPF have urged the public to refrain from speculation and to allow the investigation to take its proper course.

The CPF have extended their heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the senseless loss.

Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi said: “Lansdowne detectives are searching a crime scene in Elzeth Road for clues where two males were shot and killed early this morning, Thursday 9 October 2025 at about 6.10am.

“Information at our disposal indicates that five unknown gunmen approached the two males and opened fire on them.

“Both victims aged 34 and 39 were declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel.

“The suspects fled the scene and they are yet to be arrested.”

Swartbooi added: “Lansdowne police are investigating two counts of murder.

“The circumstances surrounding this incident are now the subject of an investigation by the South African Police Service.”

A public appeal is hereby made to anyone with information to please call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or alternatively use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.

Karodia adds: “As the Lansdowne Community Police Forum, we strongly condemn any acts of violence in our community. “

Violence has no place in our neighbourhoods, and we urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or information that could assist SAPS in their investigation.”