In Cape Town, the Mother City of South Africa, communities on the Cape Flats are once again grappling with the shadow of gang activity. During the weekend of 23 to 25 May 2025, a series of fatal incidents unfolded, painting a picture of ongoing challenges in maintaining safety and security in these areas.
On Saturday, 24 May 2025, in Retreat, a 19-year-old, allegedly associated with the Mongrels gang, was discovered deceased on the roof of a building. Reports indicate that the young man was attempting to evade gunfire by climbing onto the roof when he was fatally wounded. Police were called to the scene at approximately 9 PM, where they found the victim with a gunshot wound to his chest.
Medical personnel declared him deceased at the location. The circumstances surrounding this incident are currently under investigation by the Steenberg police. Nicola Small, chairperson of the Steenberg Community Policing Forum (CPF), acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the SAPS, CPF, and other stakeholders to enhance community safety. She highlighted successful arrests and the removal of firearms from the streets as positive steps. Small emphasized the importance of community involvement, urging residents to report criminal activity and cease harboring criminals or concealing weapons and drugs.
In a separate event on 23 May 2025, in Hanover Park, a 34-year-old woman lost her life while trying to protect her partner, who was allegedly a member of the IGB gang. According to Ward Councillor Emre Uygun, the woman intervened when her boyfriend was targeted, tragically resulting in her being fatally shot. Police responded to the shooting incident at approximately 10:40 AM on Silica Walk. Upon arrival, they found the victim with a gunshot wound. She was pronounced deceased at the scene by medical personnel.
Adding to the weekend’s unrest, on 23 May 2025, in Bonteheuwel, a shooting resulted in one fatality and injuries to six other individuals. This incident is believed to be linked to rival gangs operating in the area. Ward Councillor Angus Mckenzie has strongly condemned the events, calling for the perpetrators to be brought to justice. He described the individuals involved in gang activity in Bonteheuwel as cowards, suggesting they operate when law enforcement visibility is low. Mckenzie emphasized that the community rejects these actions entirely.
Adding to the list of incidents in Cape Flats, police are also investigating the death of a 51-year-old man in Vyigeskraal, in Athlone, who was allegedly shot by his own son. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of 25 May 2025, has shaken the local community. Residents have expressed growing concerns about the increasing frequency of shootings in the area and the impact of gang activity on their daily lives, particularly for those traveling to and from school, church, or work.
These incidents underscore the persistent challenges faced by communities on the Cape Flats in South Africa. The complex interplay of social, economic, and historical factors contributes to the ongoing gang activity and its impact on the lives of residents.
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