Work to restore order in Mitchells Plain after deadly shootings
Police Spokesperson, Frederick van Wyk, said that 14 suspects were arrested for murder and attempted murder, while seven others were nabbed for the possession of illegal guns.
Picture: @SAPoliceService/X
CAPE TOWN - A multi-disciplinary police team made several arrests in Mitchells Plain on Friday after a flare-up of gang-related shootings left seven people dead and five others wounded.
Police said that 43 suspected gang houses were searched in Beacon Valley, Tafelsig and Portlands, where 21 suspects were arrested.
Police Spokesperson, Frederick van Wyk, said that 14 suspects were arrested for murder and attempted murder, while seven others were nabbed for the possession of illegal guns.
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The suspects are set to appear in the Mitchells Plain Magistrates Court on Monday.
"Seven suspects aged between 17 and 46 were arrested for possession of unlicensed firearm and possession of prohibited firearm and ammunition. Fourteen suspects aged between 20 and 39 were arrested for murder and attempted murder, and a 30-year-old suspect was arrested for the illegal possession of ammunition."
Cape Town's Acting Mayor Eddie Andrews said that the City of Cape Town was calling on residents to come forward with information about the incidents.
"The recent shootings in Mitchells Plain are a direct threat to the safety and well-being of our communities. This level of violence will not be tolerated. City is offering a R100,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible."
The city said it was working closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to restore calm to the area.