A devastating mass shooting in Gugulethu, South Africa, has claimed the lives of seven people, sparking widespread outrage and fear within the community. The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, June 28, in the Kanana informal settlement.

According to residents, a group of ten men were socializing in a shack when unknown gunmen stormed in and opened fire. Seven men were killed instantly, while three others, who were asleep in another part of the dwelling, miraculously escaped unharmed.

The police are investigating the incident, and the provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Andrè Traut, confirmed that patrol officers were alerted to the shooting at around 3am on Saturday. The identities of the deceased are being withheld as investigations continue, and the motive for the heinous crime remains unknown.

The police are appealing to the public for assistance in locating two men, Linde Madolo and Loyiso Matinisi, who they believe may be able to provide crucial information regarding the mass killing. Madolo was recently released from prison, having been arrested in connection with the murder of Lulama “Guffy” Dinginto, the Gugulethu CPF deputy chairperson, in December 2023.

The Gugulethu Community Police Forum (CPF), the Western Cape Provincial Community Police Board, and the Cape Flats Safety Forum have all vehemently condemned the weekend’s violent shooting. Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has also voiced his deep concern and outrage at the Gugulethu shooting and other recent incidents of violence in the Western Cape.

The community is calling for increased police visibility and intelligence-driven operations to address the escalating violence on the Cape Flats. The police are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice and restoring a sense of safety and security to the community.

The community of Gugulethu remains on edge, grappling with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence. The police are working tirelessly to uncover the truth behind the killings and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

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