Metro Police officers in Cape Town came under attack in two separate incidents over the weekend while carrying out enforcement duties in Manenberg and Macassar.

On Saturday, officers came under fire in Manenberg while responding to reports of gunshots in the area. Officers returned fire during the exchange, wounding two suspects.

In a separate incident on Sunday in Macassar, Metro Police officers were attacked while arresting a suspect allegedly found in possession of drugs and a dangerous weapon. Two officers sustained minor injuries during the incident.

Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, condemned the attacks, saying officers are increasingly being targeted while performing their duties.

“Unfortunately, we had at least two incidents over the weekend where Metro Police officers came under attack in the execution of their duties. These incidents have sadly become all too common, but we cannot allow it to go unchecked.”

Smith added that officers serve on the frontline of public safety but are now being placed at greater risk while protecting communities.

“Our officers are on the frontline keeping the streets safe for all our residents. Instead, they have now become the targets.”

Smith further stressed that violence against law enforcement cannot be justified, and urged communities to assist police by providing information that could help identify and apprehend those responsible.

“Violence against law enforcement cannot be justified and is an attack on the safety of our residents. I call on the communities of Atlantis and Manenberg to help us with information that can help us track and arrest those who attacked our staff. The City can pay a reward for any information that leads to an arrest, so please call 021 480 7700.”

Investigations into both incidents are ongoing.