Attack on Kleinvlei police station could be linked to crackdown on gangs
DAMAGE The windows at the police station were shot.
Image: Supplied
THE attack on the Kleinvlei police station may have been in response to the police’s crackdown on gangs in the area.
The Kleinvlei station came under attack on Wednesday night after recent arrests were made.
According to sources, unknown gunmen fired 32 shots at the building in suspected retaliation and it is alleged that members affiliated with the gangs believed that Kleinvlei SAPS had made the arrests.
No injuries were reported however there is damage to the structure.
Image: Supplied
Police spokesperson Colonel Andrè Traut said: “Shortly before midnight, Kleinvlei police station came under attack when unidentified assailants opened fire on the building from a charcoal-coloured VW Polo.
“Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The incident resulted only in structural damage to the facility.”
He added that the matter was handed over to the Hawks for further investigation.
The incident comes after Edmincha “Netta” Wildebess, 25, who lived in Spandau, Kleinvlei, was shot in the street in a red VW Polo behind the Mfuleni Magistrates Court and police station in Blue Downs.
Wildebess, who was sitting in the back passenger seat of the vehicle, is believed to have not been the intended target of the hit. It is alleged that the actual target is a person who is a leader figure and released on bail.
It is further alleged that the leader figure is in conflict with the Dixie Boys gang and Beach Cats gang.
COP SHOP SHOT Kleinvlei SAPS under attack by gangs.
Image: Piet Smit
It is alleged that Netta was linked to the Horribles gang, operating in Kleinvlei and was set to appear at the court.
Kleinvlei Community Policing Forum (CPF) Chairperson David Poggenpoel told the Daily Voice that: “The motive for the shooting is not known although there is a suspicion and is something that can be factored in, perhaps the local police at Kleinvlei in recent times as from the weekend have been quite active in addressing a certain gang in a certain area here in Kleinvlei with assistance from the Anti-Gang Unit.
“There was quite a bit of activity and up until yesterday, there was arrests made and a firearm seized so there is a vague suspicion that it could be reprised from a certain gang to intimidate, that could be a motive but I cannot substantiate that really.
“The provincial commissioner of the police was here this morning and showed quite a bit of interest for safety and safety discussions.”
Poggenpoel added that the station was operating as per usual.
Hawks spokesperson Zinzi Hani said: “I confirm that we are investigating the case and it is still very early to respond to any questions regarding the investigation, linkages and any leads at this time, we request time before sharing any information pertaining to any possibilities.”
Cape Times