Police ramp up efforts after deadly gang shootings in Mitchells Plain

Additional resources have been deployed to Mitchells Plain following multiple shootings on Thursday that claimed the lives of five people and wounded seven others.

Police believe the shootings could be linked to ongoing gang violence.

Police spokesperson Novela Potelwa confirmed that multidisciplinary deployments have been bolstered to prevent further occurrences.

The first shooting that claimed the lives of two people and left three wounded at about 12.30pm occurred at a tuck-shop in Beacon Valley. 

“Also in Beacon Valley, four other persons were shot at another tuck-shop. One died and three were wounded. In the third shooting incident, another person was shot and injured, also in Beacon Valley” said Potelwa.

Two more people were shot dead in Tafelsig and Town Centre. 

“All incidents are believed to be gang related. Murder and attempted murder cases have been opened and Anti-Gang Unit detectives are investigating the incidents.

"As the manhunt for the perpetrators continues, no arrests have been effected yet,” she said.

Safety and security mayco member JP Smith said the City is also deploying additional resources to Mitchells Plain to support the SAPS.

“We have availed nearly 60 members from LEAP, the Metro Police Tactical Response Unit and the Traffic Services’ Roadblock Unit. Our operational management are working closely with SAPS on this matter and we will avail any other resources where needed so that calm may be restored. Also critical is to find the perpetrators behind these heinous acts,” he said.

Fight Against Crime SA (FACSA) said the situation was highly volatile and unfolding rapidly.

“Mitchells Plain has been rocked by multiple shootings today in Beacon Valley, Town Centre, Eastridge, and Tafelsig.

“SAPS officers have been forced to run from one scene to the next, with suspects reportedly opening fire even while SAPS is on scene.

FACSA called for the immediate implementation of the SAPS 72-hour action plan to hunt down those responsible and restore calm.

“We urge all residents to stay indoors, stay alert, and avoid the affected areas.”

Cape Times