Youth Day marred by violence and gang-related deaths

On a day meant to honour the courage and sacrifice of South Africa’s youth, communities are instead mourning the young lives lost to violence and gangsterism.

Police are investigating a mass shooting in Phillippi East where four men were shot and three killed in Better Life informal settlement on Sunday night.

Crime groups were alerted to the shooting when unknown gunmen entered a premises and opened fire at the victims who were ringing in Monday's public holiday.

Three men between the ages of 28 and 39 years were shot and fatally wounded while a fourth victim who survived the shooting was transported to a medical facility for treatment.

Police spokesperson, Andrè Traut, said police are investigating a case of triple murder and one case of attempted murder in Philippi East.

“Provincial Serious Violent Crime detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding a shooting incident that occurred on Sunday, 15 June, at approximately 11:15pm.

"The incident claimed the lives of three men, aged between 28 and 39, and left a fourth man wounded.

"According to reports, the victims were consuming alcohol inside a residence in 18083 Road, Better Life, Philippi East, when unknown assailants entered the premises and opened fire.

"Three victims were declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel, while the fourth was transported to a medical facility for treatment.

"Detectives are investigating three counts of murder and one of attempted murder."

In Manenberg on Saturday, a 32-year-old was gunned down while playing music.

According to reports, it is alleged that the man was in his house in Kasougu Road while the party continued outside his home when an unknown opposing gang member called him outside.

Police spokesperson, Ian Bennett, said: “He left his room and stepped out. After a brief conversation, gunshots were fired at point blank. He was shot in front of the illegal community street party patrons. The 32-year-old male went back inside followed by his assailant where he was shot again, once again in front of several partygoers as witnesses.”

The deceased collapsed and succumbed to several fatal gunshot injuries to his body and a single gun shot to the head.

“His assailant walked out in front of several eye witnesses, yet no one has come forward with information. The suspect fled the scene on foot.

“Manenberg's community needs to change its perception if they are serious about turning the tide against gangsterism and killings within the area.”

Cops had previously issued a stern warning to gang bosses in May regarding their continuous lawless behaviour and called to put a stop to their planned “End of May Month bash.”

The gang bosses have reportedly agreed to cancel the parties to ensure the safety of the communities by going through the legal process of applying through the City to host such events.

Meanwhile in Gauteng, the communities of Westbury and Eldorado Park are also mourning the young lives lost to violence and gangsterism.

Residents say gunfire has become a daily soundtrack in their neighbourhoods, with children and teenagers bearing the brunt of ongoing turf wars. While some youths are lured into gangs, others— far too many — are simply caught in the crossfire.

“We are tired of burying our children,” said a tearful mother in Westbury, holding up a picture of her 15-year-old son who was killed while walking home from school.

“Youth Day is supposed to be about honouring the youth, but here in Westbury, our youth are under attack.” 

The protest comes just days after the deaths of three teenagers in neighbouring Eldorado Park. Police have opened murder dockets and are investigating possible gang links.

The names of the victims, aged between 14 and 17, have not yet been released.

“These were young people with dreams, with potential,” said one Eldorado Park teacher who asked not to be named for safety reasons.

“Now they’re statistics. That’s what hurts the most.”

According to residents, gunfights often erupt in broad daylight, sometimes just metres from schools or playgrounds. While the Anti-Gang Unit has been deployed in the past, their presence has been inconsistent, and at times, met with hostility. In one recent incident, Anti-Gang Unit officers were forced to flee Westbury after being attacked during a routine patrol.

“People feel abandoned,” said community activist Jerome Daniels. “We need a long-term strategy, not just police presence for a few days after a tragedy. We need real investment in our young people, in education, in sports, in jobs.”

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