The Western Cape SAPS have confirmed that they suspect gang violence motivated the mass shooting in Bonteheuwel last night.  

The incident on Amandel Street saw gunmen open fire on a group outside a shop, and primarily minors were injured.  

Spokesperson, Bridgadier Novela Potelwa, noted that the victims were aged 10, 11, 12 and 16. 

“A group was standing outside a shop when a vehicle emerged and two suspects alighted. The suspects started firing shots… The victims were taken to a medical facility for treatment,” said Potelwa in a statement.  

The Bishop Lavis Crime Prevention Forum has since advised that the young victims are stable in hospital.  

This was one of two incidents reported in the area last night, with police confirming that a 30-year-old man was shot and injured on Citrus Street.  

“[The victim] was shot in the back by a gunman in a moving vehicle. He was also transported to hospital for treatment,” read the police statement.  

Potelwa advised that no arrests have been made for either incident, with both incidents believed to be related to gang violence.  

Lindhorst noted these incidents are deeply concerning, especially as part of daily shootings, taking place amid the army’s deployment.  

He reiterated his call for police “to get a grip on crime”.  

“More boots on the ground without a targeted approach to reduce crime and deal decisively with gangsters will yield the results currently seen on the Cape Flats where gang-related crimes continue and at times increase whilst the army is deployed into our communities,” said Lindhorst.