A violent stabbing spree shocked Milnerton on Wednesday, 23 April 2025, when an unknown man launched an unprovoked attack on members of the public, leaving at least two individuals seriously injured. Police have since confirmed the arrest of a suspect linked to the assaults, with the victims receiving urgent medical care.
The series of attacks began outside the Cash Crusaders store, where the first victim, a woman, was targeted. The assailant, according to reports, subsequently moved along Koeberg Road, where he stabbed a second victim, this time a man, who managed to flee the scene and alert authorities at the nearby police station.
Police spokesperson Anelisiwe Manyana provided an update on the incident, stating:
“We can confirm that Milnerton police opened an attempted murder case, assault with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm and possession of dangerous weapon following an incident that took place on Wednesday 23 April 2025.”
Authorities acted promptly following the report and located the suspect shortly thereafter. His arrest has been seen as a rapid and effective response by the Milnerton police officers on duty.
“Milnerton police responded to the complaint and that resulted in the arrest of the suspect,”
Manyana further confirmed.
The suspect is scheduled to appear in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 25 April 2025. He faces serious charges stemming from the attacks, which left both victims in critical condition in hospital at the time of reporting.
The local community has also rallied in response to the shocking events. The Milnerton Crime Watch Trust (MCWT) issued a public appeal for witnesses to come forward with any information that might assist the ongoing investigation. Posting to their official Facebook page, MCWT disclosed that the female victim has strong ties to their organisation.
They stated:
“…the female victim is the wife of James Jonker who had previously assisted MCWT with our signboard project.”
The organisation urged anyone who might have witnessed any part of the attacks but had yet to provide a formal statement to police to do so immediately. Their message read:
“It is requested that if anyone witnessed any of these incidents and has not given statements to please contact Milnerton SAPS.”
As the investigation progresses, police are working to piece together a clearer picture of the events that unfolded during the shocking midday attacks. Community members have expressed both horror and concern over the violent outbreak in an otherwise bustling commercial area, and authorities have reassured the public that they are treating the matter with the utmost seriousness.
The identities of the victims have not yet been officially released, and updates regarding their medical conditions are expected in due course.
The motive behind the attacks remains unclear at this stage, and police have not ruled out any possibilities. Further updates will follow as more information becomes available.