This is according to a Sentraal High School’s messaging group, extending their condolences after Siemens, former chairperson of the school's governing body, was shot this afternoon.

Bloemfontein Courant earlier reported unknown gunmen allegedly shot and killed one of the tenants in the centre.

A manager at one of the stores in Preller Square, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said two men followed the deceased into a lift where they attempted to rob him. He fought back, but was shot by one of the robbers.

“It is chaos here at Preller. Everybody is scared, because we don’t know if the robbers left or if they are still in the building. This situation forced me to close up shop for the day. Luckily the police and the Emergency Medical Services are already on the scene. Unfortunately it was too late for the deceased,” the tenant said earlier.

Wendy Nkabi, SAPS spokesperson, told OFM News Olebogeng Motse that a thorough investigation is currently underway and that the Tactical Response Team has launched a manhunt for the suspects. The police have cordoned off the crime scene in the basement.

OFM News/Bloemfontein Courant