Cape Town – Western Cape police have launched a murder investigation after five people were shot dead and another injured during a suspected home invasion in Gugulethu in the early hours of Monday.
Detectives attached to the Provincial Serious and Violent Crime Unit are investigating five counts of murder and one count of attempted murder following the shooting in NY50, Gugulethu.
“Police responded to reports of a shooting at a residence, where they found the victims with multiple gunshot wounds,” SAPS said in a statement.
Police said four men and one woman, aged between 19 and 23, were declared dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel. A 20-year-old woman who sustained gunshot wounds was rushed to a medical facility for treatment.
“A preliminary investigation indicates that two unidentified armed men forced their way into the house by kicking open the front door. The suspects allegedly demanded a firearm before opening fire on the occupants. They fled the scene and have not yet been arrested,” the statement said.
The motive for the attack remains unknown, and police have launched a manhunt for the suspects.
Western Cape Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Luyanda Damoyi condemned the killings and instructed investigators to pursue those responsible.
“The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the Western Cape, Major General Luyanda Damoyi, has strongly condemned the brutal attack and directed detectives to pursue all available leads to bring those responsible to justice,” SAPS said.
Police said additional operational members have been deployed in Gugulethu “to prevent any further violence and provide reassurance to the community” while the investigation continues.
Authorities have appealed to anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111 or submit anonymous tips via the MySAPSApp. Police said all information received would be treated with the strictest confidence.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
