Western Cape Police Commissioner Thembisile Patekile has confirmed that a violent gang feud, stemming from a family dispute between rival leaders, is behind the recent mass shootings in Mitchells Plain that left five dead and seven critically injured.
Wave of Violence Across Multiple Areas
The shootings occurred in Beacon Valley, Tafelsig, Eastridge, and Portland over a short period. According to Patekile, the attacks began when occupants of a red Toyota Corolla opened fire outside a shop, killing two people—one at the scene and another in the hospital. Shortly after, another shooting at a different shop left four victims, one fatally.
As police responded, yet another attack was reported in Tafelsig, prompting a large-scale police operation that led to over 20 arrests. Five suspects have been charged, including two for illegal firearm possession and one for ammunition possession.
Gang Feud Linked to Family Conflict
Patekile revealed that the violence originated from a clash between two gang leaders married to siblings from the same family. The dispute escalated when one gangster fought with the other’s son, sparking retaliatory attacks.
“We know the two people who started this fight—they are gang leaders from rival groups,” Patekile said. “We are now tracking the actual shooters, but they have fled their homes.”
Criticism of Police Response
Community leaders have accused law enforcement of being reactive rather than proactive. When questioned about crime intelligence efforts, Patekile acknowledged past challenges, including the resignation and prosecution of some intelligence officers. However, he insisted that under new leadership, the unit has improved, leading to recoveries of illegal firearms, drugs, and successful arrests.
“We are moving from the unknown to the known,” he said. “Our intelligence team is working behind the scenes to locate these suspects.”
Manhunt Underway
Police are actively searching for the shooters, believed to be linked to the two gang leaders at the center of the feud. Authorities have urged the public to come forward with any information that could assist in apprehending the suspects.
As investigations continue, residents remain on edge, fearing further violence in the gang-plagued areas of Mitchells Plain.
