Police in Harare, Khayelitsha, have registered a murder case following a shooting incident that occurred in Hlola Street on Monday 6 July.

Provincial police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed a 38-year-old woman was shot and killed. He said the circumstances surrounding the incident were under investigation. “The motive for this attack forms part of the police investigation.”

ALSO READ: Khayelitsha shootings leave six dead in Makhaza and Harare

Residents suspect robbery as possible motive

A community member, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, said it was not clear why the woman was killed. “We suspect the motive was robbery. Maybe she refused to hand whatever the criminals were demanding over. When criminals are robbing you, you must cooperate. The fact that she is a woman makes me doubt it is extortion-related.”

The community member raised concern about the escalating crime in the area, noting that anything can happen at any time. They also highlighted the problem of illegal firearms on the streets.

Calls for tougher action against criminals

“We are dying like ants. The government must impose strict sentences against criminals and murderers. I feel as if prisoners are living a good life in jail, some of them with cellphones, eating three meals a day, while others outside are struggling to get a meal.” The community member urged law enforcement officers to leave no stone unturned.

Anyone with information about this fatal shooting is requested to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.