A man in his early 40s was arrested by the police after he allegedly shot his neighbour dead and seriously injured his wife after an argument in the Cullinan area on Sunday.

Police spokesperson Johannes Jaftha said the incident occurred at the squatter camp near Wagensdrift at 11.30am, and it apparently emanated from an argument over suspicions of adultery.

He said the deceased (38), was in his yard with his wife when the suspect stormed in.

"An argument ensued amongst the trio over the claims that the suspect slept with the wife of the deceased recently.

"The suspect then dashed out and went to his shack a few metres away to fetch a shotgun.

"He came back and fired several shots at the couple, killing the husband instantly", he said.

Jaftha said the woman (37), sustained gunshot wounds to the upper body and she was rushed to Mamelodi hospital in a critical condition.

He said the suspect then tried to flee but the police were already hot on his heels as they arrested him a few hours later.

"We seized a shotgun and charged the suspect with murder and attempted murder.

"The investigations are continuing over whether his killer weapon was licensed or not."

The suspect was expected to appear at the Cullinan Magistrate's Court soon.

Sapa