PHILIPPI EAST – A quiet Saturday morning was shattered by gunfire in Lower Crossroads when three young people were killed and another seriously injured during a brutal shooting at a home, by suspects who allegedly wore police uniforms.
Western Cape police have launched an urgent investigation after two unknown suspects, allegedly impersonating police officers, entered a residence in Hankomo Street at about 02:00 on 26 July and opened fire on its occupants.
The victims, two men aged 19 and 20, and a 20-year old woman were declared dead at the scene by emergency personnel. A fourth victim, a 26-year old woman, sustained gunshot wounds to both arms and was transported to a nearby hospital where she remains under medical care.
Police spokesperson Colonel Andrè Traut confirmed that detectives from the Serious and Violent Crime Unit are probing three counts of murder and one count of attempted murder. “The motive for the attack is yet to be established and no arrests have been made. The suspects remain at large,” Traut said.
A community leader, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of retaliation, described the attack as horrifying and symptomatic of deeper issues plaguing the area.
“According to the report I received from the community, the deceased were killed by unknown people who were disguised as police officers. That alone shows that we are not safe. If there are people going around using an officer’s uniform to rob and kill people, then we have a serious crisis. We want law enforcement to investigate this incident thoroughly and leave no stone unturned,” the leader said.
“The townships are turning into crime zones. We need more police visibility. Government must intervene and deploy more officers.”
This tragedy is the latest in a string of violent incidents in Philippi East, an area already grappling with high levels of gun violence and gangsterism. Community members have raised concerns about the increasing boldness of criminals and the use of police impersonation as a tactic to gain access to homes.
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or to report anonymously via the MySAPS mobile application.
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