Cape Town - Employees belonging to a City contractor and security guards had a narrow escape when they came under fire during a shooting at the City’s Beacon Valley housing project in Mitchells Plain on Wednesday.
“This was the fourth targeted shooting incident with malicious intent towards this project. It was also the second time petrol bombing was used to damage the construction plant. In this latest incident, two construction workers were shot, one in both his legs and the other in the chest. He is fighting for his life in hospital.
“These latest incidents happened within 24hours after contractors moved back to site after the previous shootings. Both contractors have since de-established the site and all work has ceased. The area remains tense and security has been increased, including City law enforcement agencies,” said human settlement mayco member Malusi Booi.
He said police have launched an investigation into the incident, adding that the possibility that the incident was in relation to extortion rackets could not be ruled out.
“It is an increasingly common occurrence at City projects across the metro and it is to the detriment of the community at large and earmarked beneficiaries. The City, and/or its contractors (the latter who are responsible for their staff's safety), implement various measures, including law enforcement escorts, private security or the suspension of projects and services, where the danger to life is pronounced.
“This impacts communities at large and beneficiaries and residents in particular. We urge anyone with information on this shooting to please come forward with anonymous tip-offs to the City or to approach the SAPS,’ said Booi.
Anyone with information can contact 112 from a cellphone (toll free) and 107 from a landline or 021 480 7700 for emergencies.
Cape Times