Western Cape police have confirmed that two people died following a mass shooting incident in Imizamo Yethu, part of Hout Bay, on Thursday night.
Spokesperson, Captain Frederick van Wyk, said that a group of male victims came under attack on OR Tambo Road at 20:15.
“[The incident] claimed the lives of two adult males and the injuring of five males aged between 22 and 43,” said Van Wyk.
Van Wyk said reports on the incident suggest that four of the wounded men sought help at the local fire department, after which the matter was reported to police.
Officers then visited the location of the incident, where they discovered two bodies with gunshot wounds. A fifth injured victim had already been transported to the hospital before officers arrived, noted Van Wyk.
The City’s Safety and Security chief, JP Smith, initially reported on the incident last night, after multiple gunshots rang out in the area.
“Some victims sought refuge at the Houtbay Fire and Rescue department while fleeing from attacker,” said Smith on social media.
Arrests made
Seven suspects, aged between 19 and 31, have been arrested, and two firearms were recovered.
Van Wyk said the firearms will undergo ballistic testing.
Meanwhile, the suspects are expected to appear in the Wynberg Magistrates’ Court once charged.
Smith said the suspects’ vehicle was identified, which resulted in their arrest.
“Thanks to swift response, the suspects’ vehicle was identified, and 5 occupants were arrested. 2 firearms were recovered: an Uzi and a 9mm. One of the suspects sustained a gunshot wound to his hand, reportedly shot by one of his own accomplices,” added Smith.
While Smith believes the incident may be linked to extortion, Hout Bay police are investigating what the possible motive could be.
“The motive for this shooting incident forms part of police continued investigation… Hout Bay police registered two counts of murder and five attempted murders… Detectives attached to the Provincial Serious and Violent Crime Unit and the Taxi Violence Team are investigating,” said Van Wyk.
