CAPE TOWN – Muizenberg police are investigating the murder of a 19-year-old man who was shot dead in Mountain Road, Overcome Heights on Tuesday 19 August.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting are still unclear.
“According to reports, police officers were patrolling the area when they were stopped by a member of the public who informed them about the shooting incident in Mountain Road.
On the members’ arrival at the scene they saw the victim lying on the ground with two gunshot wounds to his face,” said police spokesperson Capt FC van Wyk.
He was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel.
Muizenberg police registered a murder case for investigation. “The motive is believed to be gang related,” he added.
The killing is the latest in a series of incidents that have plagued the community since Wednesday morning 13 August.
A total of eight people have been shot dead in the area in less than a week, prompting calls for more police visibility.
On Sunday 17 August, approximately 30 people attended a memorial service at the Overcome Heights Community Centre to honour the lives of some of the men who have been killed.
Western Cape police commissioner, Lt Gen Thembisile Patekile conducted a walkabout in the Muizenberg and Steenberg policing precincts on Tuesday August 19.
Patekile said the police are committed to restoring stability in the area, emphasising that specialised units and additional deployments have been tasked to intensify operations targeting gangs and organised crime. He further appealed to the community to work closely with the police by sharing information that can assist investigations and help bring perpetrators to justice.
A Steenberg resident, who wished to remain anonymous for fear of safety, said that area has become a “war zone”.
“Daily people are dying and we are all living in fear. Currently you have people shot in broad daylight.
“People are asking where is the police, where is the politicians to protect the innocent. We the innocent are too scared to leave our homes. Get the army in to protect us now because the police cannot.”
Anyone with information is requested to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App. Information will be treated as highly confidential.
Ward 45 councillor Mandy Mar says she plans to hold a prayer vigil in the area but will confirm the location and date of the event in due time.
