Religious leaders plead for increased safety measures amid escalating shootings in Gugs

GUGULETHU police conceded to the challenges at the police station during a picket by a group of religious leaders pleading for safety and an end to ongoing violence in the area.

The group handed over a memorandum to the police, calling for urgent measures to curb gun violence and prevent gender-based violence (GBV).

This follows ten murders reported in the township over the past two weeks.

On Thursday, four security officers were shot: one was killed, while three others were wounded and rushed to hospital. Minutes later, a salon owner was killed near this scene.

That was followed by a double murder in Lotus informal settlement on Friday.

Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley said Gugulethu police registered two counts of murder for investigation. 

“Upon arrival on the scene, police members found two males aged 23 and 29 who sustained gunshot wounds to their bodies. Both victims were declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel. The circumstances and the motive for the attack form part of the police investigation, and arrests are yet to be made. Anyone with any information about this incident can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.” 

The memorandum read out by one of the marchers called on SAPS support in creating a safer environment for learners during the examination period, including increased patrols around schools, setting up temporary safety zones, and collaborating with school security to monitor entrances and exits.

It also called for the establishment of emergency contact points for learners and educators, traffic management near exam centres, and initiatives to address GBV and substance abuse.

The document further urged police to run awareness campaigns on GBV prevention, provide confidential support services and referral pathways for victims, and work with NGOs and social workers to ensure trauma-informed care and rapid responses to GBV-related incidents.

Receiving the memorandum, Colonel McCloen said he would hand it over to the station commander.

“We appreciate that all of you came to the station. We look forward to working closely with you. Please be aware that we have challenges at the police station. I will give the station commander the memorandum,” he said.

Cape Times