CAPE TOWN – Police officers in the Western Cape are investigating two separate shooting incidents that claimed five lives and left several others injured during the early hours of Saturday 28 March.
The first incident occurred at approximately 03:35 in J Nontulo Street, Gugulethu, where police have registered three counts of murder and one of attempted murder. According to preliminary reports, a group of individuals were socialising in a backyard when unknown suspects gained access to the premises and opened fire before fleeing the scene.
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Three victims—males aged 24, 29, and 40 succumbed to their injuries, whilst a 24-year-old male survived and is currently receiving medical treatment. Emergency personnel declared two victims deceased at the scene, with a third later passing away in hospital.
The motive for this attack is yet to be confirmed, however investigators are exploring the possibility that the incident may have been a targeted hit. Detectives attached to the Serious and Violent Crime Unit are pursuing all available leads.
Philippi East incident
In a separate incident at about 04:00 in the Marikana informal settlement in Philippi East, two people – a 43-year-old male and a 41-year-old femalen – were shot and killed. Two additional male victims, aged 37 and 46, sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to hospital for treatment.
The circumstances surrounding this attack suggest that robbery may have been the motive.
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The police has condemned these senseless attacks and is mobilising resources to bring those responsible to justice.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile application anonymously.
