Gang warfare in Manenberg leaves residents trapped in their homes
Alleged Clever Kings gang member Muhammed Arendse was killed in recent gang wars,
Image: Supplied
Manenberg residents are gripped with fear and are trapped inside their homes due to ongoing warfare between rival gangs the Clever Kids and Hard Livings.
According to residents living in Gail Court along Sabie Way, gunshots have been sporadic since Tuesday.
One resident, who asked to remain anonymous said that they weren’t able to attend work on Wednesday due to the gunfire.
Another woman who asked not to be identified due to safety concerns said she was unable to visit her grandchildren as the shootings continued.
Mayhem was triggered when alleged Clever Kids gang member Muhammed Arendse, known as "Tanne" was gunned down on Tuesday.
Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk explained: "Manenberg police registered a murder following the discovery of the body of a 40-year-old male (with multiple gunshot wounds) on September 16 at 10.23pm behind Gail Court in the park, Sabie Walk, Manenberg.
"The motive for the incident forms part of police investigations. The suspect/s are yet to be arrested."
In a separate incident, Manenberg station commander Brigadier Jayce Naidoo said his teams were able to secure an arrest following a shooting Wednesday.
"Integrated forces saturated the hotspot areas and soon identified the shooter. A 36-year-old male shooter was identified and pointed out by the community and was arrested for being in possession of a 9mm pistol and eight rounds."
The accused, who was wanted in an attempted murder case registered at Cape Town Central SAPS, now also faces charges for the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition and is expected to appear in the Athlone Magistrates Court.
While people have been unable to leave their homes, Councillor Deidre de Vos said that they cannot access the area.
She said ongoing shootings prevented her service delivery teams from entering Manenberg to maintain the council flats.
De Vos explained: “Every second week, we dedicate a maintenance day in Manenberg.
“During the first week, the housing team goes out to do assessments, and on the second week, the full maintenance team comes in to attend to the issues that need to be fixed.
“This process is becoming a serious concern for both us as maintenance and for the residents. Each time it feels like we try to take one step forward, we end up being pushed ten steps back.
“The uncertainty in the area is making it difficult to even know whether we can continue with our work.”
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