‘AMBUSHED IN THE KITCHEN’

POLICE in Cape Town are investigating a mass shooting which claimed the lives of seven people on Saturday. 

The incident took place at approximately 3.30am, in Gugulethu. 

The provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Andrè Traut, confirmed the incident which took place at a residence in the Kanana informal settlement. 

Traut reported: “At approximately 3.30am, SAPS members on patrol were alerted to the shooting. Upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered the bodies of seven men, all with gunshot wounds.

“Preliminary information suggests that the victims were socialising in the kitchen when they were ambushed by unknown assailants. 

“Three other men who were asleep elsewhere in the house at the time of the attack escaped unharmed.” 

He met with detectives from the Serious and Violent Crimes Unit on the scene on Saturday, where he instructed them to explore every possible lead to uncover the truth behind the killings and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

Western Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile, condemned the attack, adding: “Violent and firearm-related crimes remain a top priority for the Western Cape SAPS, and no resource will be spared in the pursuit of justice. 

Traut, meanwhile, later confirmed that two men are being sought in connection with the incident. 

Traut said: “The Serious and Violent Crimes Unit in the Western Cape is appealing to the public for assistance in locating two men, Linde Madolo and Loyiso Matinisi, who may be able to provide crucial information regarding the mass murder of seven adult males in Gugulethu.”  

Police said the men are not suspects in the murder, adding: “While the two individuals are not considered suspects at this stage, investigators believe they may be able to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the incident.”  

The identities of the deceased are being withheld at this stage, and the motive for the heinous crime is yet to be established.

Police urge anyone who knows their whereabouts or can assist in tracing them to contact Sergeant Sithembele Sambunjelwa of the Serious and Violent Crimes Unit at 073 416 5224. 

All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.