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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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Kensington man gunned down inside winkel in ‘gang hit’

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A 38-year-vintage man was fatally shot inside a shop in Fifth Avenue, Kensington, on Monday afternoon, February 16th, at 3:40 PM. Police are investigating the incident as a gang-related murder.

Details of the Shooting

According to police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk, the victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Witnesses reported that the man was standing inside the shop when he was targeted by the perpetrators. The investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made as of this reporting.

Did You Know? For the three weeks prior to this incident, the ward had experienced only sporadic shootings, with no reported murders or attempted murders.

Ward councillor Cheslyn Steenberg noted that this is the first instance of bloodshed in the area in recent weeks. He stated that the community, in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), had seen a period of relative calm.

Concerns Over Firearms

Steenberg emphasized that the incident underscores the continued presence of firearms and ammunition within the community. He expressed hope that the anticipated deployment of the South African National Defence Force will lead to increased confiscation of weapons.

Expert Insight: The resurgence of violence, even after a period of calm achieved through community and police collaboration, highlights the deeply entrenched nature of gang activity and the challenges of sustained peace in areas plagued by firearms.

The motive for the shooting is believed to be gang-related, though the specific circumstances are still under investigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time did the shooting occur?

The shooting occurred on Monday, February 16th, at 3:40 PM.

Where did the shooting take place?

The shooting took place at a shop in Fifth Avenue, Kensington.

Is anyone in custody in connection with the shooting?

No, the investigation continues with no arrests made as of this reporting.

What steps might be taken to address the ongoing issue of gang violence and firearms in Kensington?

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E-hailing driver found dead in Elsies River

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A 34-year-old foreign national working as an e-hailing driver was found stabbed to death in his vehicle on Friday morning in Elsies River, Cape Town. Police are investigating the incident as a murder.

Details of the Incident

Reports indicated a grey Fiat Picanto was blocking the corner of Balvenie and Norwood Road around 6:00 am. When police arrived at approximately 6:10 am, they found the vehicle locked and had to break the front passenger window to access the driver.

The driver was unresponsive, and blood was found on the rear bumper, according to police spokesperson Captain FC Van Wyk.

Did You Know? The incident occurred at the corner of Balvenie and Norwood Road in Elsies River.

A Pattern of Violence

This incident is not isolated. A resident, wishing to remain anonymous, stated that similar attacks have occurred previously, with groups known as “Uber robbers” specifically targeting e-hailing drivers to steal their phones and money, often resulting in further violence.

According to the resident, these groups request rides solely to rob drivers.

Potential Impact on E-Hailing Services

Chairperson of the Western Cape E-hailing Association, Siyanbonga Hlabisa, warned that e-hailing services to and from Elsies River could be halted if the violence continues. He described Elsies River as a “no go zone” for drivers.

The association is currently running campaigns to raise awareness and collaborate with community police forums and the South African Police Service to prevent future incidents.

Expert Insight: The potential suspension of e-hailing services highlights the difficult trade-offs between providing transportation access and ensuring the safety of drivers in areas experiencing high levels of crime. This situation underscores the need for collaborative solutions involving law enforcement, community organizations, and e-hailing companies.

Ongoing Investigation

Elsies River police have registered a murder case and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the driver’s death. Police are appealing to the public for information, and individuals with details about the incident are encouraged to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile application anonymously.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the victim’s occupation?

The victim was an e-hailing driver.

What is the police doing about the violence?

Elsies River police are investigating the murder and are appealing to the public for information. They are likewise working with the Community Police Forums and the South African Police Service.

Could e-hailing services be suspended in Elsies River?

Siyanbonga Hlabisa warned that e-hailing services to and from Elsies River may be halted if violence against drivers continues.

What more can be done to ensure the safety of e-hailing drivers in vulnerable areas?

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‘ROBBED OF HIS FUTURE’ – Parow Valley family mourn son who planned to become a mechanic

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A Parow Valley family is mourning the death of their 24-year-old son, Egan Sampson, who died after being shot in Ravensmead early Saturday morning. The incident has prompted a murder investigation, according to police.

Details of the Shooting

The shooting occurred around 2:40 am on Denton Street. According to Captain FC van Wyk, police spokesperson, the initial report indicated a shooting and injury. Mr. Sampson was transported to Tygerberg Hospital for medical treatment, but later died from his injuries. The case has been reclassified from attempted murder to murder.

Did You Know? The investigation began with a report of a shooting and injury, and was later changed to a murder investigation after Egan Sampson died in hospital.

James Sampson, Egan’s father, described learning of the incident after his son did not return home from a night out. After failing to reach Egan by phone, he received a call from one of his son’s friends. He was then informed that Egan had been shot in the leg and, upon returning to the location, discovered only blood on the ground.

Mr. Sampson later identified his son’s body at Tygerberg Hospital, stating he was “shot in the head.” He indicated information surrounding the shooting remains unclear, but believes his son may have been shot four or five times after initially being wounded in the leg.

A Future Cut Short

According to his father, Egan Sampson was working and planning to complete his studies in motor mechanics. James Sampson said his son was “looking forward to the future” and was remembered by friends as “fun to be around, jokey, friendly, helpful and always looked out for others.” Approximately 30 to 40 of Egan’s peers visited the Sampson family home following the news of his death, and continue to offer support.

Expert Insight: The loss of a young person to violence is a tragedy with ripple effects extending far beyond the immediate family. The outpouring of support from Egan Sampson’s peers suggests a strong sense of community, but also highlights the vulnerability of young people to violent crime and the lasting impact such events have on those left behind.

Police are currently investigating the incident and have requested that anyone with information contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS App anonymously.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time did the shooting occur?

The shooting incident occurred at approximately 2:40 am on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

Where did the shooting take place?

The shooting took place on Denton Street in Ravensmead.

Has anyone been arrested in connection with the shooting?

As of the latest reports, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. The investigation is ongoing.

What steps can community members take to help prevent similar tragedies?

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Man shot dead after being chased down in Mitchells Plain

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Violence continues to plague communities across the Cape Flats, with a recent surge in killings raising concerns about escalating gang tensions. On Sunday, February 1, 2026, three separate murder investigations were opened across Mitchells Plain, Browns Farm, and Kraaifontein.

Escalating Violence in Mitchells Plain

The most recent incident occurred in Montrose Park, Mitchells Plain, where a 34-year-old man, described as an alleged gang member, was shot and killed at approximately 9:20 PM on Tracey Crescent. According to reports, the victim and others were chased by four unidentified individuals in a blue Mk1 VW Golf before being fired upon. Another person was injured in the shooting and received medical treatment.

Did You Know? The shooting in Montrose Park occurred at 9:20 PM on February 1, 2026.

Lentegeur police have confirmed they are investigating both murder and attempted murder cases related to the incident. Captain FC Van Wyk stated the motive is believed to be gang-related. Michael Jacobs, Public Relations Officer for the Lentegeur Community Police Forum, indicated the shooting may be an act of retaliation for a previous incident weeks prior, where an alleged gang member was wounded.

Additional Fatalities Reported

The violence extended beyond Mitchells Plain on Sunday. Philippi police responded to a murder complaint in Browns Farm at approximately 2:10 AM, discovering the body of an unidentified adult male with stab wounds to the shoulder, chest, and stomach. Hours later, Kraaifontein SAPS registered a murder case after finding the body of a 32-year-old male on Zihlangu Street, who had sustained a stab wound to the chest.

Expert Insight: The concentration of violent incidents within a single day suggests a potentially significant breakdown in local security and a heightened risk of further escalation. Retaliatory cycles, as suggested by community representatives, are particularly difficult to disrupt and often require sustained, multifaceted intervention.

Investigations into the deaths in Browns Farm and Kraaifontein are ongoing, according to police spokespersons Constable Ndakhe Gwala and Thembakazi Mpendukana, respectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of the investigations?

Police have confirmed that murder and attempted murder cases are under investigation in Mitchells Plain, and murder investigations are underway in Browns Farm and Kraaifontein.

Was a vehicle involved in the shooting in Mitchells Plain?

Reports indicate that the victim and others were allegedly chased by four unidentified males in a blue Mk1 VW Golf before being shot.

Is there a known motive for the violence?

Police believe the shooting in Mitchells Plain was gang-related, and a community representative suggested it may be an act of retaliation for a previous incident.

As investigations continue, it is possible further details regarding the motives and perpetrators will emerge, and authorities may increase patrols in affected areas. However, without intervention, the cycle of violence could continue, potentially leading to further loss of life and increased instability in these communities.

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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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