STRAND – Two emergency meetings were held in Lwandle on Monday (28 September) as the community seeks answers to the violent incident that claimed 10 lives at the weekend.

Among those attending the gatherings was Dr Mmusi Maimane, leader of BOSA, who pledged to raise police under-resourcing in the precinct in Parliament.

Ten people were killed and 11 wounded when gunmen opened fire at KwaNdelu Shisanyama in Vulindlela Street at 01:46.

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Maimane attended the district community policing forum (CPF) meeting, where he raised concerns about resource challenges before stepping out to privately meet acting station commander Captain Ntikelelo Dada. The chairperson of Parliament’s Standing Committee on Appropriations was also at the station to examine systemic resource challenges.

To Dada he clarified that inadequate resources were at the crux of the problem, pointing to the national budget and how police funds were allocated. The two also spoke about precinct resources, especially the officer-to-resident ratio, but the police officer declined to provide the information citing protocol.

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Regardless, Maimane undertook to take these issues directly to Parliament. “If the gunmen are driving anything faster than what the police have, they will get away again,” he said.

At the CPF meeting, City of Cape Town district chairperson Shamila van Schalk led discussions with community leaders. The tense apolitical gathering saw some dressed in ANC regalia, compelling Van Schalk to bring calm. “We are here to listen to you,” she said.

Xolani Sotashe and Koleka Mqulwana, ANC members and residents, said political affiliation does not detract from their advocacy for those who had died.

Mqulwana conveyed the stark realities facing families whose loved ones have been killed. “One saw a social media post that their family member had died,” she said.

Working together, the groups decided to help police identify the victims, as families needed closure and support in accordance with cultural practices.

A call was issue to the community to report any missing loved ones to Lwandle police.

 To report a missing relative, call Warrant Officer Mthokozisi Gama on 071 604 8373.

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