A 32-year-old man, allegedly affiliated with a local gang, was fatally gunned down during a street party in Manenberg on Saturday night, highlighting the persistent grip of gang-related violence in the Cape Flats suburb—despite prior police warnings and a declared zero-tolerance stance towards unlawful gatherings.
The incident unfolded just after 8:30 p.m. on 14 June, on Kasougu Road, while residents were participating in an informal celebration known locally as a “jol.” It is understood the man was inside his home when an individual, believed to be from a rival gang, called him outside.
According to South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Captain Ian Bennett, the encounter turned violent within moments.
“He left his room and stepped out. After a brief conversation, gunshots were fired at point blank,”
he explained.
“He was shot in front of the illegal street party patrons. The 32-year-old male went back inside [his home] followed by his assailant where he was shot again, once again in front of several partygoers…”
Witnesses report that the gunman then calmly walked away from the scene on foot, leaving behind a trail of trauma and unanswered questions. Despite the presence of numerous onlookers, no one has come forward with information to assist in the investigation.
“His assailant walked out in front of several eye witnesses, yet no one has come forward with information,”
Bennett added.
“The suspect fled the scene on foot. Manenberg’s community needs to change its perception if they are serious about turning the tide against gangsterism and killings within the area.”
The victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his body, including a fatal shot to the head, and collapsed shortly thereafter. Emergency services were unable to revive him.
This tragedy comes shortly after Manenberg SAPS Station Commander Brigadier Jayce Naidoo, along with the Community Policing Forum (CPF), issued a strong warning in May aimed at known gang leaders. The statement condemned their continued disregard for the law and urged the community to reject unlawful gatherings, especially the widely anticipated “End of May Month bash.”
Despite promises from some gang figures to cancel unauthorised parties and instead follow proper channels through the City of Cape Town to host events legally, informal street parties continue to thrive.
“While the family mourns his death, loud music and socialising continues undeterred by the brutal murder of an alleged gang member by an opposing gang member,”
Bennett said, painting a stark picture of a neighbourhood that seems desensitised to violence.
Authorities have opened a case of murder, but at the time of reporting, no arrests have been made. The lack of cooperation from witnesses is proving to be a significant hurdle in solving the case.
Police are urging anyone with knowledge of the incident to step forward. SAPS can be contacted at 021 699 9400 or via the anonymous Crime Stop line on 08600 10111.
