Police in the Western Cape are investigating two separate mass shooting incidents that claimed the lives of seven people and left five injured in Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain, and Philippi East on Wednesday evening.
The first incident took place at about 8:10pm in Laure Street and 8th Avenue, Lost City, Tafelsig.
“Five men were reportedly standing outside a local tuck shop when they were approached by armed suspects who opened fire on them. Three victims, aged 18, 19 and 51, sustained fatal gunshot wounds and were declared deceased at the scene. Two additional victims, aged 17 and 22, were transported to a medical facility for treatment,” Western Cape police spokesperson Colonel Andrè Traut said.
Less than 30 minutes later, police responded to a shooting incident in Marcus Garvey, Philippi East at about 8:30pm where seven people were shot.
“Four victims, aged between 17 and 20 years, succumbed to their injuries, while three others were admitted to hospital for medical treatment,” Traut said.
The circumstances surrounding both incidents are the subject of ongoing investigations. Police said detectives are pursuing all available leads to identify and apprehend those responsible.
“The motive for the shootings is yet to be determined and forms part of the police investigation,” Traut said.
Police said that, to prevent further violence and enhance public safety, deployments in the affected areas have been increased.
“Members will maintain a visible presence and continue to conduct crime prevention operations aimed at stabilising the communities and ensuring the safety of residents,” Traut said.
Western Cape police management condemned these acts of violence in the strongest possible terms and said it remains committed to bringing those responsible to justice.
Anyone with information that could assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or submit information anonymously via the MySAPS mobile application.
All information will be treated with the strictest confidence.
robin.francke@iol.co.za
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