Concerns over the safety of law enforcement officers and gang violence in general have been raised after a suspect opened fire on Cape Town Metro Police officers who were patrolling in Manenberg over the weekend.
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An incident took place in Rio Grande Street on Friday when the officers, who were assisting the SAPS in addressing gang violence, heard gunfire and saw the suspect discharging his firearm.
According to Safety MEC JP Smith, the officers ordered him to lower his weapon, resulting in an exchange of gunfire before the suspect fled.
‘The wounded suspect collapsed shortly afterwards and officers immediately summoned medical assistance, but the 35-year-old male was declared dead by medical personnel a short while later,’ said Smith.
A 9mm pistol with no serial number and six rounds of ammunition in the magazine were discovered.
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Smith emphasised the City’s commitment to reducing gang violence, which is a problem in several communities.
‘We are doing all we can to help, including deploying additional operational resources and using all available technology like gunshot detection, CCTV surveillance, dashboard cameras and body-worn cameras where available,’ said Smith.
‘It is concerning that, after the officers subdued the suspect in Manenberg, they were faced with hostility from some in the community. It cannot be that the very communities who are desperately pleading for assistance and intervention turn on enforcement services in this matter.’
Western Cape SAPS spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie, said a case of attempted murder and an inquest docket have been opened for investigation.
‘As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the incident,’ he said.
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Picture: JP Smtih / Facebook