An alleged gang leader has been apprehended in Lavender Hill. According to Alderman JP Smith, the City’s Mayco member for safety and security, Law Enforcement officers approached the individual after receiving intelligence about drug sales in Dover Court.
Upon searching the suspect, officers discovered mandrax tablets and cash in small denominations. Further investigation revealed that the suspect is the leader of the Fast Guns gang and is currently on parole. Smith stated,
“We have notified the Department of Correctional Services of the parole violation and hope the parole is overturned and that his sentence is extended.”
Smith has voiced his frustration with the criminal justice system, criticizing its ineffectiveness. He remarked that it is disheartening for officers to see individuals they have arrested return to the streets, thereby contributing to ongoing gang violence. Smith has called for significant changes and improvements within the police service and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). He emphasized the urgent need for reform in Correctional Services, stating,
“Those convicted of crime are simply recycled back into society with little or no signs of rehabilitation.”
Lavender Hill, Ottery and other areas on the Cape Flats have become volatile war zones, with gunfire erupting frequently this weekend. pic.twitter.com/2VJf3w5zFM
— capeflats (@thecapeflats) June 29, 2024
Lavender Hill, Ottery and other areas on the Cape Flats have become volatile war zones, with gunfire erupting frequently. Four individuals have already been shot, and the situation remains tense. Smith reported,
“We have deployed maximum resources into the area.”
Despite the numerous incidents, there appears to be a lack of witnesses coming forward. Smith urged the community to cooperate with law enforcement to help address the violence. He stated,
“With so many incidents, it cannot be that absolutely no one saw either of the shooters. We will help these communities as best as possible but we need the community to help us.”
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has been employing drones due to the dangers faced by officers who are being shot at. Currently, SAPS vehicles are patrolling Ottery Road, but shootings in Ottery, Parkwood, and Lavender Hill continue unabated.
Smith called for prayers and urged people to avoid these areas for their safety. He stressed the importance of community cooperation in overcoming the current crisis and restoring peace to these neighborhoods.
The ongoing violence in Lavender Hill and surrounding areas highlights the urgent need for systemic reform and community support to effectively combat gang activity and ensure public safety.
