A Hawker was killed in a suspected gang shooting in Athlone on Saturday morning.
The 20-year old victim, only known as Antonio aka “Happy Feet”, was shot and killed on a field in Balcombe Road in Hazendal close to his shack.
A resident, who asked to remain anonymous, says they are living in fear.
“We’re no longer safe. We need help.
“Although Antonio was a member of the Yakkies gang, he worked as a fruit and veg seller’s helper and was loved and admired by many,” the resident says.
Police spokewoman, Sergeant Noloyiso Rwexana, confirms: “A case of murder has been opened for investigation after a shooting incident on Saturday at 5.55am at Balcombe Road.
“Police found the body of a 20-year-old man with gunshot wounds to his body.
GRIM: Body of Antonio, 20, recovered from the scene. Photo: SUPPLIED
“Circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation with no arrests so far.”
Community Policing Forum (CPF) chairwoman, Aziza Kannemeyer, says one shooting leads to another “with no end in sight”.
“Fights between gangs in Bokmakierie/Hazendal are nothing new. The recent shooting is in retaliation for a previous shooting which was also a retaliation.
“It’s an ongoing saga, exacerbated by families and friends of gangsters and drug dealers and the lack of witnesses or witness statements,” Kannemeyer says.
“The CPF welcomes any initiative by communities to curb crime and manage disorder. Athlone SAPS has been very visible and their response time has been excellent, but they have more than Bokmakierie to police.
“We’re willing to do whatever we can to assist in setting up street committees and neighbourhood watches to help with safety.”