Deadly night in Cape Town as two shootings leave five dead, several wounded

Cape Town – The South African Police Service in the Western Cape is investigating two separate shooting incidents that left five people dead and several others injured in the early hours of Saturday.

Police said the first incident occurred in Gugulethu, where three people were killed and another wounded.

“Gugulethu police have registered three counts of murder and one of attempted murder following a shooting incident that occurred at approximately 03:35 in J Nontulo Street,” SAPS said.

According to preliminary reports, the victims were socialising when gunmen struck.

“A group of individuals were socialising in a backyard when unknown suspects gained access to the premises and opened fire before fleeing the scene,” police said.

A 24-year-old man, a 29-year-old man and a 40-year-old victim died as a result of the attack, while another 24-year-old man survived and is receiving medical treatment.

“Emergency personnel declared two victims deceased at the scene, while a third later passed away in hospital,” SAPS added.

Police said the motive for the Gugulethu shooting remains unclear but may have been targeted.

“The motive for this attack is yet to be confirmed, however, investigators are exploring the possibility that the incident may have been a targeted hit,” SAPS said.

In a separate incident in Philippi East’s Marikana informal settlement, two more people were killed shortly after.

“In a separate incident in Philippi East, in the Marikana informal settlement, two people – a 43-year-old male and a 41-year-old female – were shot and killed at about 04:00,” SAPS said.

Two additional men, aged 37 and 46, were wounded and taken to hospital for treatment.

Police believe robbery may have been the motive in the Philippi East shooting.

“The circumstances surrounding this attack suggest that robbery may have been the motive,” SAPS said.

The police have condemned the violence and launched investigations into both incidents.

“SAPS condemns these senseless attacks and is mobilising resources to bring those responsible to justice,” the statement read.

Authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward.

“Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile application anonymously,” SAPS said.