2 killed in suspected gang-related shooting in Mitchells Plain
2 killed in suspected gang-related shooting in Mitchells Plain! The community of Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain, is reeling from yet another deadly shooting, as two men were gunned down in what police believe to be a gang-related attack.
The incident took place in the early hours of Sunday morning, at the corner of Suurberg and Buffelshoek Street. The victims, aged 30 and 41, were reportedly targeted and shot at close range.
This latest act of violence has once again highlighted the ongoing gang warfare that continues to plague Mitchells Plain and other areas on the Cape Flats.
Details of the Shooting
According to the Mitchells Plain police, the two men were standing at the location when an unidentified gunman approached and opened fire on them.
“According to reports, the two deceased were standing at the mentioned address when an unidentified male randomly started to shoot at them, hitting both in the head. The motive is believed to be gang related. The suspect fled the scene and is yet to be arrested,” said police spokesperson FC van Wyk.
Both men were declared dead at the scene, and no arrests have been made so far.
Gang-related shooting
Gang Violence Continues to Terrorize Communities
Mitchells Plain, a crime hotspot on the Cape Flats, has been battling gang violence for decades. Rival gangs frequently engage in deadly shootouts, putting residents’ lives at risk.
Community members in Tafelsig say they are tired of living in fear, with gang-related killings becoming more frequent. Many have called for increased police visibility and tougher action against criminal elements.
A local resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said:
“Every week, we hear gunshots. Innocent people are dying because of these gangsters. The police come after the shooting, but nothing changes.”
No Arrests Yet – Police Investigating
Authorities have confirmed that no suspects have been arrested at this stage. However, an investigation is underway.
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
“We are appealing to the public to assist us in identifying the suspect. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or visit their nearest police station,” said van Wyk.
Many community members believe that witnesses are too afraid to speak out, fearing retaliation from gangs.
The Toll of Gang-Related Crime in the Area
Mitchells Plain has seen a sharp increase in shootings, with many of them linked to turf wars between rival gangs.
According to crime statistics, gang-related murders, attempted murders, and illegal firearm possession cases have skyrocketed in recent years.
Local activist Claudine Mentor from a community-based anti-crime group, said:
“We are losing our young men to this senseless violence. It’s not just the gang members who are dying—innocent children and women get caught in the crossfire too.”
Many residents have expressed frustration at the justice system, saying that even when gangsters are arrested, they are often released on bail and return to the streets.
Government and Community Response
The Western Cape government and law enforcement agencies have launched several anti-gang operations, but the violence continues to persist.
The Anti-Gang Unit, established to combat organized crime, has been deployed in several hotspots, including Mitchells Plain, Manenberg, and Delft. However, many believe more needs to be done.
Local councillor Jerome Roberts said:
“We need long-term solutions. More policing can help, but we must also address unemployment and social issues that push young people into gangs.”
Community leaders are also calling for more youth intervention programs, job opportunities, and support for families affected by gang violence.
A Plea for Justice
As police continue their investigation, the families of the two slain men are left grieving and demanding justice.
Residents are calling on authorities to intensify efforts to end gang violence, as many fear that another shooting is only a matter of time.
With no arrests made yet, it remains to be seen whether this latest tragedy will lead to meaningful action—or become just another statistic in Mitchells Plain’s long history of gang-related killings.
