Three people were shot dead and two others injured in a violent attack in New Crossroads, near Nyanga, on the Cape Flats last night. The incident marks yet another mass shooting in Cape Town, where more than 20 people have been killed in similar attacks in recent weeks.
According to police reports, the South African Police Service (SAPS) responded to a shooting on Mulletane Street, where four armed suspects opened fire on the victims before fleeing with multiple cellphones and a firearm belonging to one of the deceased. All five victims are believed to be in their 30s.
Residents Fearful, Witness Speaks Anonymously
Occupants of the house where the shooting occurred refused to appear on camera and warned the SABC to stop filming. A community member, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to safety concerns, described the harrowing scene:
“There was one guy who came in and asked the women to ‘crush the main rex.’ After they did, he left and returned with three men. They closed the room door and shot them dead. One survived.”
The witness added confusion over the number of victims, stating, “We heard there were five, but we don’t know where the fifth one is.”
Police Probe Motive, Appeal for Information
Western Cape Provincial Serious and Violent Crime detectives are investigating the attack, with the motive still unclear. Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or submit tips anonymously via the MySAPS mobile app.
Officials Condemn Violence, Cite Illegal Firearms as Key Issue
A spokesperson for police oversight and community safety, condemned the killings, linking the surge in violent crime to the proliferation of illegal firearms.
“The availability of illegal guns and ammunition remains a major driver of serious crimes,” he said, calling for community cooperation with law enforcement.
As investigations continue, residents of New Crossroads and surrounding areas remain on edge, with many fearing further violence in one of South Africa’s most crime-burdened regions.