MASSARCE: One of four bodies found in the street
Image: Leon Knipe
THE informal settlement of Overcome Heights was rocked by another mass shooting during the early hours of yesterday morning when four men were gunned down.
The deadly shooting incident took place around 5.30am in Mountain Road when four men between the ages of 20 and 37 were slain.
Police say that the matter is under investigation and state that gangsterism has not been ruled out as a possible motive for the attack.
Police spokesperson Colonel Andrè Traut reported: “The circumstances surrounding the deaths of four men in Overcome Heights, Muizenberg, earlier [yesterday] morning are under police investigation.
"Detectives attached to the Anti-Gang Unit are working tirelessly to determine the events that led to the incident.
"At approximately 05:30, the bodies of four men, aged between 20 and 37, were discovered in Mountain Road, each with fatal gunshot wounds.
"While gangsterism has not been ruled out as a possible motive, investigators are pursuing all lines of enquiry in an effort to bring those responsible to justice.”
Public relations officer for the Muizenberg Community Police Forum Wayne Turner urged community members to work together with authorities to bring the perpetrators to book amid the ongoing gun violence that has plagued the community.
Wayne said: “The Muizenberg Community Policing Forum (CPF) is deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic deaths of four young men in Overcome Heights earlier [Wednesday] morning.
"We extend our condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the victims during this extremely difficult time.
"We commend the swift response by SAPS and the Anti-Gang Unit, who are already working tirelessly to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident. We urge the community to remain calm, cooperate fully with law enforcement, and share any information that may assist in bringing those responsible to justice.
"Overcome Heights and surrounding areas have, in recent months, experienced heightened levels of violent crime, often linked to gang activity, disputes over territory, and the illicit drug trade.
"This tragic event is a stark reminder of the urgent need for ongoing collaboration between SAPS, Law Enforcement, Neighbourhood Watches, and community structures to disrupt criminal networks and improve safety.
"The CPF remains committed to working with all stakeholders to address the root causes of violence through visible policing, targeted operations, and sustained community engagement.
"We call on residents, civil society, faith-based organisations, and government partners to intensify efforts to create safer, more resilient neighbourhoods where violence is not normalised and young people have viable alternatives to crime.”
The South African Police Service appeals to anyone with information that can assist the investigation to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or to use the MySAPS mobile application. Callers may remain anonymous, and all information will be treated with confidentiality.