Two security guards lost their lives during a waste collection operation in Philippi East on Thursday afternoon.
These guards, aged 30 and 34, were escorting City of Cape Town staff when they were brutally shot multiple times by unidentified people who subsequently fled the scene. Both guards were pronounced dead upon arrival at a nearby medical facility.
Local authorities, including SAPS, have launched an investigation into the incident. Initial reports suggest that the motive behind the attack may have been an armed robbery, as the perpetrators made off with the firearms belonging to the deceased guards.
The City’s Urban Waste Management (UWM) has temporarily suspended refuse collection services in Philippi East due to safety concerns. This marks the second suspension this year in the same area, as earlier, contractors withdrew their services due to extortion threats.
The City’s #UrbanWasteManagement Directorate regretfully informs residents of Philippi East that we have been forced to temporarily withdraw waste collection services from the area for the second time this year.
See: https://t.co/V25sjX3A6j#CTNews pic.twitter.com/KgWNauG2QS
— City of Cape Town (@CityofCT) September 15, 2023
According to News24, Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, Grant Twigg, expressed alarm at the attack on the crew responsible for refuse collection in Philippi East. He highlighted the City’s efforts to ensure the safety of staff and contractors in the area, including the deployment of internal staff from other areas under security escort.
However, Twigg also noted the emotional toll this incident has taken on the teams involved. It may be several weeks before they can fully reinstate waste collection services in the area. Discussions are underway to explore ways to safely resume these vital services, including potential support from law enforcement agencies and private security firms.
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The City of Cape Town emphasised that providing security escorts for waste collectors has incurred additional expenses. Hiring escort services, deploying extra staff and considering potential overtime all contribute to these rising costs.
Grant Twigg conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families of the two security guards who tragically lost their lives. The City has urged residents of Philippi East to refrain from dumping uncollected waste and to stay informed about clearing backlogs and any adjusted waste collection schedules through official media channels.
As the investigation continues, authorities have called upon the public for assistance. Anyone with information about this heinous crime is encouraged to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
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Picture: City of Cape Town / Facebook