Kensington Shop Shooting: Man Fatally Gunned Down In Suspected Gang Attack

A 38-year-old man was fatally shot inside a shop on Fifth Avenue on Monday afternoon, in what police believe was a gang-related attack in Kensington, Cape Town. The shooting has left residents alarmed after weeks of relative calm in the area.

Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed that a murder case has been opened. “Kensington police registered a murder case following a shooting incident on Monday, 16 February, at 3.40 at a shop in 5th Avenue, Kensington, in which a 38-year-old male was shot and fatally wounded,” he said.

“The deceased sustained several gunshot wounds. The motive is believed to be gang-related. Investigations continue, with no arrest as yet.”

Kensington Community Responds to Resurgence of Violence

Ward councillor Cheslyn Steenberg described the incident as a grim reminder that violence persists in the area.

“Witness accounts said that the victim stood at the shop when he was gunned down by the perpetrators,” he said. “The circumstances surrounding this incident are being investigated.”

Steenberg noted that Kensington had enjoyed a relatively quiet period in recent weeks thanks to collaboration between the community and the SAPS.

“For the last three weeks, we have had no major incidents in the ward. There have been sporadic shootings, but no murder or attempted murder. This once again proves there are still guns and ammunition in our community.”

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Calls for Stronger Police and SANDF Action

Following the fatal shooting, Steenberg expressed hope that the planned deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will help remove illegal firearms from the streets.

“With the expected deployment of the SANDF, I hope that their hands will be stronger to confiscate more guns and ammunition from our communities,” he said.

Police continue to investigate and urge anyone with information to come forward.