Following a weekend riddled with gang violence and fatal shootings, Metro Police have enhanced their efforts to rid the streets of firearms.
On Tuesday Metro Police officers were patrolling in Manenberg following an escalation of violence between two opposing gangs.
Around 7 p.m., officers responded to the sound of gunfire in and witnessed a suspect hiding in Rio Grande Street while shooting in the direction of his opposition.
The members ordered the suspect to lower his weapon. The shooter instead turned his weapon and fired at the officers. This resulted in a shoot-out between Metro Police and the suspect. The shooter eventually ran in an attempt to evade custody.
The suspect, who was wounded during the shootout, collapsed shortly after running. Medical assistance was called to the scene, and shortly after the 35-year-old male was declared deceased.
The scene was handed over to the South African Police Service for further processing and investigation. Investigators from the directorate’s Safety and Security Investigation Unit were activated and attended the scene. The unit assisted with the preservation and gathering of evidence.
“As gang violence has plunged several communities into utter terror, our resources are going all out to curb the violence and bring a sense of relief to our communities. This includes not only additional operational resources but also by utilizing all available technology including gunshot acoustics and CCTV surveillance.” – Alderman JP Smith
It is alleged that the shooter was a member of the Hard Livings gang who had recently broken away and joined the Clever Kids gang. The move increased rivalry between gangs that have already saturated the Cape Flats.
Smith added that communities are often desperately pleading for assistance and intervention, but turn on authorities when one of their own is taken into custody.
