A young pharmacy owner, Nomzila Madinane, and her cashier, Melissa Sbanda, were allegedly shot and killed after three unknown men stormed into their newly opened pharmacy in KwaNyuswa, Hillcrest.
It is alleged that the pharmacy had only been launched a week ago, after Nomzila reportedly identified a need for easier access to medication in the community, where many residents were previously forced to travel long distances to town for pharmaceutical services.
According to reports, three armed men entered the pharmacy and opened fire, fatally wounding both Nomzila and Melissa.
The two women, both believed to have been in their 20s, were declared dead at the scene.
A security officer who reportedly attempted to intervene and assist was also shot during the attack. He was rushed to hospital and is currently fighting for his life.
The motive behind the brutal attack remains unclear, and police investigations are expected to determine whether the incident was linked to robbery or another motive.
The tragedy has sparked heartbreak and outrage, with many mourning the loss of two young women whose lives were cut short just days after launching a business intended to serve the local community.
