A 40-year-old man was shot and killed in Manenberg last Wednesday, reportedly after refusing to align with a rival gang. The incident on Gouritz Road marks the latest instance of violence linked to escalating gang conflicts in the area.
Forced Allegiance and Rising Violence
Igshaan Stein sustained gunshot wounds to his ankle, hip, and back, according to police reports. He died at the scene. Captain FC van Wyk of the South African Police Service (SAPS) stated officers arrived to find Stein lying on his back on the pavement at 7:02 am on January 28th.
Sources close to Stein claim he had been pressured to join a rival gang after previously being a member of another. A source, speaking anonymously, stated he was trailed by two individuals before being shot. The motive for the shooting remains under investigation.
A Pattern of Coercion
This incident is not isolated. Another Manenberg resident, aged 22, was recently executed near the Manenberg canal after allegedly being confronted by members of the “Fancy Boys” gang. According to a relative, the victim was warned, “jy loop net vooruit of ons jou gaan skiet en jy sê niks” – meaning “you just walk forward or we will shoot you and you say nothing.”
In the second incident, witnesses reported seeing attackers emerge from a tunnel and shoot the victim at close range. The shooting was so close that the gunshot was barely audible.
What Could Happen Next
The SAPS has registered a murder case and is investigating the motive behind Stein’s death. It is possible that further investigations could reveal connections between the two shootings. Increased police presence in Manenberg is a possible next step, though sustained peace will likely require addressing the underlying socio-economic factors contributing to gang activity. Further violence could occur if the power dynamics between gangs remain unresolved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the time of the shooting involving Igshaan Stein?
The shooting incident involving Igshaan Stein occurred at 7:02 am on January 28th, according to police reports.
What was the alleged warning given to the 22-year-old victim before he was shot?
According to a relative, members of the “Fancy Boys” gang warned the 22-year-old victim, “jy loop net vooruit of ons jou gaan skiet en jy sê niks” – meaning “you just walk forward or we will shoot you and you say nothing.”
Is the motive for Igshaan Stein’s shooting known?
The motive for the shooting is currently a subject of police investigation.
What more can be done to address the root causes of gang violence in communities like Manenberg?
