A 23-year-old American citizen was stabbed to death during an apparent argument with another man at a popular backpacker on Cavalcade Road in Green Point on Friday, 9 February.
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According to Natalia Rosa, spokesperson for the National Tourism Crisis Communications, a conflict between the two men started on Thursday night at the backpackers but was resolved after police intervened.
However, tensions escalated again in the early hours of Friday morning. ‘Though it [the conflict] was seemingly resolved without issue, tensions tragically escalated again the following morning on 9 February in the guest kitchen,’ Rosa told News24.
‘Despite attempts by accommodation staff to diffuse the situation calmly, one guest ultimately fatally stabbed the other using a kitchen knife in a devastating end to their dispute.’
Police have since arrested a 27-year-old man.
‘The backpacker accommodation staff are fully cooperating with the police investigation. Trauma counselling has been provided to guests and staff affected by the terrible event.’
‘Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased during this profoundly difficult time. Further details will be provided by the authorities leading the investigation.’
Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed that the motive behind the attack was an argument.
‘A knife was handed in as an exhibit. The arrested suspect will appear in the Cape Town Magistrate’s court on Monday.’
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Picture: JP Smith / Facebook