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‘THEY WERE OUT TO GET HIM’

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

The Ravensmead community is in mourning following a shooting Sunday night that left two young people dead and another wounded. Chelsea “Lilly” Matthyse, 22, and Ashlin Petersen, 19, were killed when a white Toyota Etios with four occupants opened fire on them on Anamone Street around 8:34 PM.

Details of the Shooting

A 20-year-ancient male survived the shooting and received medical treatment. Family members of Ashlin Petersen stated that the perpetrators “were out to acquire him.” A relative described the attack as excessive, stating, “You don’t even kill an animal like that. It’s like they emptied their gun on him.”

Did You Understand? The shooting occurred at approximately 8:34 PM on Sunday night.

Family of Chelsea Matthyse expressed shock and grief, stating she was a “lovely person” not involved in wrongdoing. They reported hearing accounts that after she was initially shot, the attackers returned and fired at her again.

Police Response and Investigation

Police responded to the scene after hearing gunshots even as patrolling nearby. According to Captain FC van Wyk, a spokesperson for the Ravensmead SAPS, officers chased the white Toyota Etios, during which the vehicle’s occupants fired at them. Two suspects were arrested at the scene on De La Rey Road after the vehicle was stopped.

Expert Insight: The exchange of gunfire between suspects and responding officers highlights the dangerous conditions faced by law enforcement in areas experiencing gang-related violence. The ongoing investigation and pursuit of the remaining suspects suggest a commitment to addressing the root causes of this incident.

Officers found a magazine containing 17 nine mm rounds in the vehicle. The two arrested men, aged 26 and 30, will appear in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court once formally charged. Police believe the motive for the shooting is gang-related, and two suspects remain at large.

What Happens Next

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities could potentially gather further evidence linking the arrested individuals to the shooting. It is likely that police will continue to search for the two remaining suspects. Depending on the evidence gathered, additional charges could be filed against those arrested. A possible next step is a deeper investigation into local gang activity to understand the context surrounding this incident.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened on Sunday night in Ravensmead?

Two young people, Chelsea “Lilly” Matthyse, 22, and Ashlin Petersen, 19, were shot and killed, and a 20-year-old male was wounded.

What type of vehicle was involved in the shooting?

A white Toyota Etios with four occupants was involved in the shooting.

How many suspects are still at large?

Two suspects are still at large, according to police reports.

How can communities work towards preventing similar tragedies and fostering safer environments for young people?

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‘CHEST PAINS’ CLAIM TEEN – Heartbroken Tafelsig family stunned by death of boy, 14

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A 14-year-old boy, Tino Hanekom, tragically died on Monday after experiencing severe chest pains while at school. Hanekom was a Grade 8 learner at AZ Berman High School in Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain.

A Sudden Illness

According to his father, Elton Hanekom, Tino complained of chest pains at school. School officials and first-aid personnel assessed the situation, and Tino was initially taken to an aunt’s house before being transported to Tafelsig clinic. His father was notified around 9:30 am.

Did You Know? Tino Hanekom had been receiving regular care at Red Cross Children’s Hospital for a lung disease he was born with.

Elton Hanekom described his distress upon learning of his son’s condition, stating he was overcome with emotion while rushing to the clinic. Despite the swift response, Tino sadly passed away.

A Future Cut Short

Hanekom described his son as an amazing and friendly person, loved by all who knew him. Tino had expressed a desire to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a carpenter, but his father had cautioned him that the physical demands might be too strenuous given his health condition.

Expert Insight: The loss of a young person is always a tragedy, and the circumstances surrounding Tino’s death highlight the importance of swift medical attention and the challenges faced by families dealing with chronic illness. The emotional toll on loved ones, as described by his father, is a significant aspect of this story.

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) spokesperson, Millicent Merton, extended condolences to Hanekom’s family, friends, and the school community. The WCED confirmed the passing of the Grade 8 learner and stated that he had been rushed to a medical facility after experiencing chest pains.

Looking Ahead

the school and the WCED may offer grief counseling services to students and staff affected by Tino’s death. A possible next step could be a review of emergency medical procedures at the school, though no such review has been announced. Further details regarding the cause of death are not currently available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What school did Tino Hanekom attend?

Tino Hanekom attended AZ Berman High School in Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain.

What was Tino Hanekom’s age?

Tino Hanekom was 14 years old.

What did Tino Hanekom’s father do?

Tino Hanekom’s father, Elton Hanekom, is a carpenter.

What support systems are available to students and families facing similar challenges?

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KILLED IN HIS HOKKIE – Tafelsig family finds missing broer murdered in his home

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A community in Tafelsig is mourning the loss of Sharief Daniels, 39, who was found deceased in his home on Sunday at 9:45 PM. The discovery came days after he was last seen by family on Friday evening.

A Tragic Discovery

Daniels lived in a small structure, referred to as a hokkie, located at the back of a family member’s property on Suurberg Street. According to a close relative, Daniels had gone to ask a family member for money for electricity on Friday night, purchased it, and returned home – that was the last time he was seen alive.

Did You Know? Sharief Daniels was the youngest of four siblings.

A search of the hokkie on Saturday evening proved fruitless, with the relative describing the space as being in disarray. Just before a missing person’s poster was to be circulated, the family received the devastating news of Daniels’ death.

Circumstances of Death

The relative described a horrific scene, noting a strong odor led a family member to discover Daniels’ body with his feet visible. Even as police have not yet determined the cause of death pending an autopsy, the relative reported seeing signs of a violent attack, including visible bruising and the victim being partially unclothed. One police source suggested the possibility of asphyxiation.

Expert Insight: The delay in determining the cause of death highlights the critical importance of forensic investigation in cases of suspected homicide. The initial observations, while disturbing, are preliminary and require the rigor of a post-mortem examination to establish a definitive understanding of the events that transpired.

Daniels’ bicycle, phone, and boom box are currently missing, and an alert has been issued to community safety groups in the hope that the bicycle’s recovery may aid the investigation. Despite struggling with drug addiction, Daniels is remembered as a friendly and private individual.

Investigation Underway

Mitchells Plain police have registered a murder case. Captain FC van Wyk reported that Daniels had “multiple blue marks on his body and on his back.” The medical personnel at the scene confirmed his death. Police are asking anyone with information to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Sharief Daniels last seen alive?

Sharief Daniels was last seen alive by family on Friday evening after he returned home with electricity money.

Where did Sharief Daniels live?

Sharief Daniels lived in a hokkie at the back of a family member’s house on Suurberg Street, Tafelsig.

What items are missing from the scene?

Sharief Daniels’ bicycle, phone, and boom box are missing.

What impact will this tragedy have on the Tafelsig community, and what steps can be taken to address the underlying issues that may have contributed to this loss?

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LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR – Ruyterwacht bure at odds over alleged brothel in the area

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Tensions are rising on Elizabeth Street in Ruyterwacht, Cape Town, as a dispute unfolds over allegations that a property is operating as an illegal brothel. The situation has sparked disagreement between residents, with one claiming illicit activity and tenants refuting the accusations.

Conflicting Accounts

A resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed regret over moving to the area, citing concerns about the property. She alleges the premises are being used as a brothel, stating, “Apparently there are two other brothels in the area, but I am only aware of this one, which is illegal.” The resident detailed observing frequent activity, including constant traffic of people entering and exiting for short periods, particularly on weekends.

Did You Know? A 30-day compliance notice was issued to the property owner and tenants on February 9, 2026, regarding an unauthorised guesthouse.

Tenants at the property dismissed the claims as false, attributing them to a personal issue with a neighbor. They stated they are residents renting rooms, with some working and others attending school, and that visitors are family and friends.

Official Response

Ward councillor Christopher Jordaan confirmed he received a complaint about a brothel on Princess Elizabeth Street on Tuesday and forwarded the matter to the relevant department for investigation. He indicated that an Environmental and Building Inspector will be dispatched to verify the claims and potentially issue a notice.

Alderman Eddie Andrews, the City’s Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, stated that the City is aware of the situation and that the Land Use Enforcement team is addressing the matter. He confirmed the issuance of the 30-day compliance notice.

Expert Insight: Disputes over property use and allegations of illegal activity often highlight the challenges of balancing individual rights with community concerns. The involvement of multiple city departments suggests a serious approach to resolving the situation, but the outcome will depend on the findings of the investigation.

Wayne Dyason, the City of Cape Town’s Law Enforcement Spokesperson, said the department will conduct an on-site visit to investigate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the investigation?

A resident’s complaint to Ward councillor Christopher Jordaan on Tuesday regarding an alleged brothel on Princess Elizabeth Street prompted the investigation.

What action has the City already taken?

The City issued a 30-day compliance notice to both the property owner and tenants on February 9, 2026, regarding an unauthorised guesthouse.

What is the current status of the property?

The property is currently occupied by tenants only, who are renting rooms.

As the investigation proceeds, it remains to be seen whether the allegations will be substantiated and what further action the City of Cape Town may take.

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Shireena Birch’s family: We are broken

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Emotions were high on Wednesday as the family of Shireena Birch spoke publicly about their grief following her death, allegedly at the hands of her husband. The family shared their pain after Riedewaan Birch appeared at the Bishop Lavis Magistrates Court.

A Case Postponed

Riedewaan Birch’s formal bail application was expected to be addressed at Wednesday’s court appearance, but the case was postponed until February 18 due to the investigating officer’s illness. He faces charges of murder after allegedly stabbing his wife to death at their home on Assegaai Avenue in Bonteheuwel on February 3.

Did You Recognize? Shireena Birch was a community worker, mother, grandmother, and caregiver to one of her two grandsons.

Shireena’s sister stated, “We are broken as a family. She didn’t deserve to be taken like that. We accept her death as death is inevitable to anyone, but not in the way that she was taken.” She added that even a conviction would offer little solace.

According to family accounts, a neighbor informed them of the incident, prompting an immediate response. Shireena’s youngest son expressed his devastation, stating, “I feel pain and hatred all at once,” and noted he had previously lost a brother in 2020.

A History of Violence

The family indicated that this was not an isolated incident of gender-based violence. Shireena’s mother shared that she believed her daughter had been physically assaulted previously, but Shireena had not confided in her about it. She described the loss as sudden and cruel, recalling a moment when she felt her daughter’s life slipping away.

Expert Insight: This case underscores the devastating impact of gender-based violence on families, and communities. The family’s plea for greater attention to this issue highlights the urgent need for systemic change and support for victims.

The family has appealed to authorities and the government to address gender-based violence with greater seriousness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What charges is Riedewaan Birch facing?

Riedewaan Birch is facing charges of murder following the death of his wife, Shireena Birch.

When is Riedewaan Birch next scheduled to appear in court?

Riedewaan Birch is next scheduled to appear in the Bishop Lavis Magistrates Court on February 18.

What did Shireena Birch do for her community?

Shireena Birch was a community worker.

How can communities better support victims of gender-based violence and prevent future tragedies?

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Gangster allegedly shot dead after refusing to join rival gang

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

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.

Did You Know? The shooting of Igshaan Stein occurred while he was reportedly speaking with a woman on Gouritz Road.

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.”

Expert Insight: The reported demands for forced allegiance highlight a dangerous escalation in gang tactics. This suggests a struggle for control within Manenberg, where groups are attempting to solidify their influence through coercion and violence. The consequences of refusing to comply, as demonstrated by these two cases, are tragically severe.

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?

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Young Strandfontein lifeguards hailed as heroes after responding to road collision

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Strandfontein lifeguards are being hailed as heroes after providing critical first aid to approximately 16 people injured in a head-on collision Tuesday evening. The incident occurred on Strandfontein Road, between Baden Powell Drive and Spine Road.

Lifeguards Respond to Urgent Need

Lifeguard Lisa Adams and her colleague, Treasure Sanele Mkhasibe, witnessed the crash firsthand. According to Adams, a Toyota Avanza swerved and collided with a VW Polo while driving behind their vehicle. They immediately stopped to assist.

Did You Know? The Strandfontein lifeguards involved in the rescue are volunteers who do not receive pay for their services.

Adams described a systematic approach to providing care, stating they “assessed the injuries first and then took the patients out one by one and started with the more severe injuries to the minor ones.” After initial attempts to contact emergency services, Adams contacted her head coach, who was still at the beach.

Community Support Aids Response

Faiza Mohamed, whose 8-year-old daughter is in lifeguard training, recounted how she and the head coach utilized her vehicle to quickly reach the scene. Mohamed stated the head coach asked, “Aunty Faiza, can we just do this?” and she immediately agreed, providing transportation for the lifeguards and their first aid equipment.

Upon arrival, responders found a scene with approximately 16 injured individuals, including three minors. The lifeguards provided bandaging, splints for broken limbs, and even administered oxygen to a patient in need.

Expert Insight: This incident underscores the often-unseen preparedness and extensive training of lifeguards. Their skills extend far beyond water rescue, and their rapid response can be crucial in stabilizing patients before the arrival of dedicated emergency medical services.

Mohamed noted her daughter was shaken by the experience but was later collected by her husband. Emergency Medical Services did not respond to requests for comment prior to publication.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of injuries were treated at the scene?

The lifeguards provided bandaging for some injuries and splints for broken arms and legs. They also administered oxygen to at least one patient.

How did the lifeguards arrive at the scene so quickly?

After attempting to contact emergency services, the lifeguards requested assistance from their head coach, who then secured transportation with a parent of a trainee lifeguard.

What was the immediate aftermath of the collision?

Approximately 16 people were injured, including three minors. Lifeguards Lisa Adams and Treasure Sanele Mkhasibe immediately began assessing and treating injuries.

How might communities better support the vital work of volunteer first responders like these lifeguards?

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Portland man shot through door at his home

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Two shootings occurred in Mitchells Plain on Sunday, leaving one man critically injured and another dead. The incidents, reported in Portland and Beacon Valley, have prompted calls for urgent action to address escalating gang violence in the area.

Details of the Incidents

The first shooting took place at approximately 10:25 PM on Germiston Road in Portland. A 33-year-old man was shot multiple times through the front door of his home. Sources allege that individuals approached the residence and opened fire after knocking. Eleven bullet casings were found at the scene.

Did You Know? The shooting in Portland occurred less than six hours after the fatal shooting in Beacon Valley.

Earlier that day, at approximately 4:45 PM, a 50-year-old man was found with a gunshot wound to the head on Tennis Street in Beacon Valley. According to reports, an unidentified assailant shot the victim while he was standing outside a residence.

Police Investigation

Mitchells Plain police have registered both incidents as criminal cases. Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed an attempted murder case has been opened regarding the shooting on Germiston Road, and the victim has been transported to a medical facility for treatment. Captain FC van Wyk stated a murder case has been registered following the death in Beacon Valley. Investigations are ongoing, and no arrests have been made in either case.

Expert Insight: The proximity of these two shootings underscores the pervasive nature of violence in Mitchells Plain and the challenges facing law enforcement and community organizations in addressing the root causes of gang activity. A sustained, multi-faceted approach is likely necessary to achieve lasting improvements in public safety.

Norman Jantjes, chairperson of the Mitchells Plain Community Policing Forum (CPF), emphasized the urgent need to address gang violence. He issued a direct appeal to those involved, urging them to consider the impact of their actions on the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of the victim in the Portland shooting?

The 33-year-old victim sustained gunshot wounds to his body and was transported to a medical facility for treatment. His current condition is not specified in available reports.

What information is known about the suspects in either shooting?

The suspects in both shootings remain unidentified. Police have stated that investigations are underway, but no arrests have been made.

What has the Mitchells Plain CPF called for in response to these incidents?

Norman Jantjes, chairperson of the CPF, has called for urgent action to address gang violence and appealed directly to those involved to consider the impact of their actions on the community.

How can communities best support efforts to reduce violence and promote safety in areas affected by gang activity?

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Pedestrian fatally hit by bus in front of Salt River Fire Station

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A man in his 50s died early Tuesday morning after being struck by a Golden Arrow Bus on Victoria Road in Woodstock. Authorities are investigating the incident as a case of culpable homicide.

Details of the Incident

The collision occurred at approximately 5:27 am, according to Woodstock police. Preliminary reports indicate the pedestrian allegedly walked into the path of the bus, which was traveling the Nyanga-Cape Town route and carrying passengers at the time. The incident took place directly opposite the Salt River fire station.

Did You Know? A video of the incident was captured by another driver passing by at the time of the collision.

Bronwen Dyke-Beyer, spokesperson for Golden Arrow Bus Service, stated the driver was unable to avoid the collision. Golden Arrow has extended condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased.

The Investigation

Woodstock police have confirmed they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident. Captain FC Van Wyk reported that no arrests have been made at this time. The identity of the deceased remains unknown, and it has not been confirmed if the victim was a local resident.

Expert Insight: Culpable homicide investigations require a thorough examination of all contributing factors. Establishing intent, or lack thereof, is crucial, and the investigation will likely focus on determining whether negligence played a role in this tragic event.

Police are appealing to the public for any information related to the incident. Individuals with information are encouraged to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile application to submit tips anonymously.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a culpable homicide case?

Woodstock police registered a culpable homicide case following the accident, meaning the death was unlawful but not necessarily intentional or malicious.

Was the bus driver arrested?

No arrests have been made as of Tuesday, January 13th, according to Captain FC Van Wyk.

Is the victim’s identity known?

No, sources in Woodstock and Salt River have not yet been able to identify the deceased, and it is not confirmed if the victim was a resident of the area.

As the investigation continues, authorities may seek to reconstruct the events leading up to the collision and interview witnesses to gain a clearer understanding of what occurred.

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Third man killed in taxi-related killing this week

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A surge in violence targeting the taxi industry has left authorities investigating three separate murders in as many days. The latest incident occurred Wednesday evening in Seawinds, where a 34-year-old taxi driver was shot and killed. This follows the death of a 55-year-old driver, Yaseen Kippie, on Tuesday in Lavender Hill, and the stabbing death of a man believed to be a taxi guard at Delft Mall, also on Tuesday.

Recent Violence

The shooting in Seawinds took place at approximately 2:40 pm on the corner of St. William Road and St. Patrick Avenue. According to police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg, the victim was found with gunshot wounds inside a minibus taxi and was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect or suspects fled and remain at large.

Did You Know? The shooting on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, occurred at 2:40 pm.

Yaseen Kippie, 55, from Bonteheuwel, was reportedly shot while transporting workers in Lavender Hill. He was taken to a medical facility but succumbed to his injuries. Earlier that same day, a man believed to be a taxi guard was fatally stabbed in the chest at Delft Mall around 11:45 am.

Investigation and Association Claims

Muizenberg police are investigating the Seawinds shooting, and Delft police are investigating the stabbing. Sergeant Twigg stated that the motive for the attacks remains undetermined in both cases. Police are appealing to the public for information, urging anyone with details to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile application anonymously.

Expert Insight: A cluster of violent incidents like these, impacting individuals connected to the taxi industry, suggests a potentially escalating situation. Without a determined motive, it is difficult to assess the underlying causes, but the frequency raises concerns about safety and potential instability.

Both the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta) have stated that neither of the deceased drivers were affiliated with their organizations, and they were unaware of the incidents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of the investigations?

Police have registered murder cases for investigation in all three incidents – the shooting in Seawinds, the shooting in Lavender Hill, and the stabbing in Delft. The motives for the attacks are currently undetermined.

Were the victims associated with any taxi organizations?

According to statements provided to Daily Voice, the chairpersons of CATA and Codeta have both stated that neither of the deceased drivers were members of their organizations and that they were not aware of the incidents.

What can the public do to help?

Police are appealing to anyone with information about these incidents to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile application anonymously.

As investigations continue, it is possible that further details regarding the motives and potential connections between these incidents will emerge. It is also possible that police presence will be increased in areas frequently used by the taxi industry. The situation could remain volatile if the underlying causes of the violence are not addressed.

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