- Two teenage brothers, aged 14 and 17, were tragically shot and killed on St Bernard Street in Lavender Hill on Saturday, 3 August.
- The Steenberg CPF is urging parents to monitor their children’s whereabouts as the Anti-Gang Unit investigates the double murder.
- Additional police officers have been deployed to the area to search for the suspects and ensure community safety.
The Steenberg Policing Forum (CPF) is urging parents to ensure they know their children’s whereabouts. The warning comes days after two teenage brothers were killed.
The brothers, aged 14 and 17, were walking down St Bernard Street in Lavender Hill when they were shot dead on Saturday 3 August.
“It is very worrying that victims as young do not escape the violence,” said Steenberg CPF chair Gavin Walbrugh. “We are at a loss because we don’t know what the reasons for this are.”
He extended his condolences to the parents who suffered a double loss. “The police have assured us that they are investigating a case of double murder.”
In a statement, provincial police confirmed that detectives from the Anti-Gang Unit are investigating the case.
Brigadier Novela Potelwa, provincial police spokesperson, explained that the teens were gunned down at 06:30 on Saturday morning. “Reports from the scene indicate that the pair, aged 14 and 17, were walking in St Bernard Street at about 06:30 when they came under fire from yet-to-be identified suspects.”
Following leads
They suffered gunshots to their heads and died on the scene.
“Provincial Anti-Gang Unit members, with support from Steenberg police and other police contingents, are following leads in search of the perpetrators of the shooting.
“Meanwhile, additional police officials have been deployed to the area to assist in the search for the suspects and ensure the area is safe.”
In a separate incident, on Tuesday 6 August, law enforcement officers apprehended three suspects, who allegedly attacked and robbed an Uber driver.
According to Mayco member for safety and security JP Smith, law enforcement officers were flagged down in Lotus River.
“An Uber driver had been attacked by his passengers, who had then stabbed him in his back before they robbed him of his belongings,” he said.
“Officers proceeded in the last known direction before seeing the suspects matching the description.”
The three suspects were arrested during a “foot chase”.
“In their possession, two knives were discovered as well as the victim’s wallet and phone,” said Smith. “The victim positively identified all of the suspects.”
All three were arrested and handed over to the Grassy Park Police Station.
Smith cautioned residents to be vigilant when using social media tools and e-hailing platforms.
“With apps and social media tools meant to improve our lives, criminals have found the vulnerabilities that exist and stand ready to exploit these,” he said.
“If you make use of an e-hailing service, ensure you have a personal profile completed, along with an extensive trip history and avoid paying cash for trips.”
