A birthday celebration turned violent in Hanover Park, leaving seven teenagers injured in a shooting. The police reported that two additional men were killed and three others injured in separate incidents.
CAPE TOWN – A birthday celebration turned tragic in Hanover Park over the weekend when seven teenagers were shot and wounded. The victims, aged between 14 and 18, were attending a party in Galilee Walk on Saturday night when they were attacked by gang members.
The police reported that two additional men were killed and three others injured in separate incidents in the area.
A family member recounted Saturday night’s incident, stating that three unknown men had been seen near the house where the party was held.
“There were three strange men standing by the house where the party happened. They said they wanted a lift to get away from here. They were driven away. Apparently, they were seen by gang members who then came here thinking that the guys were still at the party. The gates were closed, they moved the net and pointed the gun and shot at the teens. Two of the youngsters were discharged and the rest are stable in hospital,” said the family member.
Western Cape police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi said the Philippi police were patrolling in Hanover Park at around 9pm when they heard the sound of gunshots.
“The unknown gunmen fled and are yet to be arrested. The Philippi police are investigating seven counts of attempted murder,” said Swartbooi.
Earlier that day, a 32-year-old man was shot and killed in Groenall Walk. Sergeant Wesley Twigg stated that the victim was found with gunshot wounds and the suspects have not been apprehended. The motive for the attack is under investigation.
Twigg added that on Sunday another shooting occurred in Lambert Place, resulting in the death of one man and the injury of a 43-year-old man. The suspects fled the scene and remain at large. Cases of murder and attempted murder have been registered for investigation.
Additionally, two adult males were shot and wounded in Lanasia Walk and were transported to a medical facility in a private vehicle. Twigg said the suspects in this incident are also yet to be arrested.
The Western Cape Provincial Community Police Board expressed outrage over the ongoing violence in Hanover Park.
“The wave of shootings and murders that unfolded is not only a tragic loss of life but also a stark indictment on the current state of security in our communities. We demand that law enforcement agencies intensify their efforts to combat this surge in violence. It is unacceptable that our communities are being held hostage by criminals who operate with impunity.
“We call on the SAPS, Metro Police, and all relevant authorities to increase their visibility, resources and responsiveness in these high-risk areas.”
The board also urged residents to join crime-fighting organisations such as neighbourhood watches and community police forums to help tackle the issue.
