South African police have shared that they have arrested six suspects concerning the murder of footballer, Luke Fleurs.
Fleuers was gunned down last week as he refilled his car at a gas station in the northwestern suburb of Johannesburg.
The nature of Luke Fleurs’ demise came as a shock to many, although many in South Africa are well acquainted with the prevalence of the menace.
Providing an update on the murder of the 24-year-old, spokesman of the South African police, Mavela Masondo said:
“Police have arrested six suspects for the alleged hijacking and murder.”
Luke Fleurs murder narrated
Strong sources have said that Fleurs was waiting to be served at a petrol station in his Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI when he was confronted by two men.
These vile individuals ordered him out of the vehicle at gunpoint and immediately shot him after he got out, before driving the deceased car away.
Spokesperson Masondo also added that the arrests were made on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in Johannesburg’s southwestern township of Soweto.
The apprehension is coming two days after detectives recovered the car of the former SuperSports United man.
Meanwhile, investigators believe the suspects are amongst a crime syndicate responsible for other car hijackings in Johannesburg’s Gauteng province.
South African Police spokesperson, Mavela Masondo also informed the public that “the search for more suspects” is still ongoing.
South Africa is battling with a sprawling violent crime rate, a notable political concern ahead of the country’s general election slated for May 2024.
Opposition parties have used the immense crime rate as a tool for bashing the government, with South Africa recording about 84 murders daily between October and December, based on official figures.
Luke Fleurs football career
Moreover, Luke Fleurs represented just 3 clubs in his career, namely; SuperSport United, Kaizer Chiefs, and Ubuntu Cape Town.
He made 72 cumulatively club appearances throughout his abruptly ended career, scoring 2 goals and providing no assist in all competitions.
Fleurs got the opportunity to fixture for South Africa on two occasions, however, he was kept on the bench in their World Cup qualifiers against Ethiopia, played in October 2021.
Several tributes were offered to the footballer following his murder, including that of Kaizer Chiefs, the club which he last represented.
Kaizer Chiefs wrote: “It is with a great deal of sadness that we announce that Kaizer Chiefs player, Luke Fleurs tragically lost his life last night during a hijacking incident in Johannesburg.”
The South African giants also acknowledged the family and friends of the late footballer during this trying time, writing: “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
“The SAPS are handling the matter and further details will be communicated in due course. May his dear soul rest in peace.”
