Three young boys sadly lost their lives in Samora Machel after being shot while chilling in their car.
The community of Samora Machel, Cape Town was left shaken after four boys were ambushed and shot in broad daylight on Saturday, 24 January.
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Three of the boys died at the scene, while a fourth victim was badly injured and rushed to hospital.
Residents said the boys had just parked their car when gunmen struck.
A resident who lives opposite the scene said the attack happened within minutes and left the community traumatised.
“I suspect these boys were being followed because they were attacked just a few minutes after their vehicle was parked.”
“We are terrified because these are young people and they are being murdered in the streets in broad daylight,” said the resident, who did not want to be named.
The resident said some people in the area recognised the victims.
“Some people say they know some of the deceased. They are from around here in Samora,” said the resident.
Moments after the shooting, residents rushed to the scene. Many stood watching in disbelief as cops cordoned off the area. Some residents said the incident, while shocking, did not surprise them.
“Guns are all over the streets. We see them every day and nothing seems to change,” said another resident.
Cops confirmed the deadly shooting and said a manhunt is underway.
Police spokesman, Colonel Andrè Traut said the South African Police Service strongly condemns the violent shooting.
“Serious and Violent Crime Unit detectives are investigating a shooting that occurred at approximately 11:55 in Oliver Tambo Drive. The victims were seated in a Suzuki Ertiga when they were approached by unknown suspects who opened fire before fleeing the scene,” he said.
Traut confirmed that three victims, aged between 16 and 21, were declared dead at the scene.
“One 19-year-old victim was taken to a medical facility for treatment. The motive for the attack is still unknown,” said Traut.
He said cops have opened three counts of murder and one count of attempted murder.
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“Police deployments in the area have been reinforced with increased visibility and patrols to stabilise the community and maintain law and order,” he said.
Cops urged anyone with information to come forward by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
