As gun violence continues to grip the Cape Flats, the Nyanga Sub-District Community Police Forum (CPF) Board launched the #SilenceTheGuns campaign at Phoenix High School to raise awareness about the devastating impact of illegal firearms in the communities.
In two separate incidents, on Wednesday 13 and Thursday 14 August, five people were shot dead and four injured in Muizenberg and Lotus River, respectively.
The launch, on Saturday 9 August, was attended by about 300 people, including various neighbourhood watches, police and law enforcement.
Among others, the community-driven safety initiative aims to:
· Encourage the public to report and provide tip-offs to law enforcement agencies.
· Build a visible, unified police service, City departments, and communities.
· Mobilise collective action against gun-related crime, particularly in gang-affected precincts.
Reginald Maart, Nyanga Sub District Public Relations Officer, said the launch was held on Women’s Day to draw attention to the challenges many women face due to gender-based violence (GBV).
“The campaign’s launch date also speaks to the vulnerability of women and children in gun-affected households and communities, further reinforcing the urgency of the intervention. While we celebrate Women’s Month, how many women lost sons, husbands or families?” he asked.
Maart described Manenberg and the Nyanga Sub-District as some of the most violence-affected precincts in Cape Town. Other areas are Bishop Lavis, Elsies River, Ravensmead, Delft, Philippi East, Samora Machel, and Gugulethu.
“These stations collectively contribute to approximately 39% of all murders within the City of Cape Town District, with firearms being the primary weapon used,” he explained.
Justin Kumelehn, City of Cape Town District CPF Board Deputy chair, said that through the campaign they hope to strengthen relationships between residents and the police.
He encouraged residents to reach out to their local CPFs to get involved.
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