The community of Manenberg was left reeling after a weekend of deadly shootings, which claimed the lives of three men and left one injured in two separate incidents. On Saturday night, a 34-year-old man was shot and killed, while a 27-year-old man was wounded in what police believe to be a gang-related attack.
According to the police, a Toyota Quantum approached the victims and opened fire on them before fleeing the scene. The 34-year-old victim was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel, while the other victim was transported to a medical facility for treatment. Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that the motive for the attack is believed to be gang-related, and Manenberg detectives are investigating murder and attempted murder cases.
Gang Violence in Manenberg
The shooting followed a double murder on Friday afternoon, after 2pm, when a 28-year-old and a 52-year-old man were shot dead outside makeshift shacks on The Downs Road. Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that the suspects fled the scene and are yet to be arrested. The South African Police Service has urged anyone with information about the shooting incident to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.
Impact on the Community
A resident, who chose to remain anonymous, described the 34-year-old victim as an innocent, hardworking, family man who was shot dead while making potjiekos for his family. The resident said: “He was sitting outside, making potjiekos for his family. When we saw him again, he was lying next to the potjie, shot dead. He is getting married the first week of June.” The resident also claimed that the person who was shot and wounded is a gangster, and that the innocent father of five is the one who lost his life.
The surge in gang violence in Manenberg has raised concerns about the safety and security of the community. The Manenberg community has been plagued by gang violence for years, and the latest incidents have highlighted the need for increased policing and community engagement to address the root causes of the violence.
- The police have increased patrols in the area to prevent further violence.
- The community has come together to support the families of the victims.
- Local organizations are working to provide counseling and support services to those affected by the violence.
The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the police’s efforts to combat gang violence in the area. The police have urged anyone with information about the shooting incident to come forward and assist with the investigation.
