The city of Cape Town is reeling from a tragic incident that occurred in Phola Park, where two security guards contracted to escort staff were shot and killed while on duty.
In response to this heinous crime, Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has announced a reward of R100,000 for any information that leads to the successful capture and prosecution of those responsible for these murders.
The incident took place when the armed security guards were driving their company vehicle, while the city vehicle transported five staff members. Upon arrival at the site, the teams gathered tools and began inspecting the sewage pipe.
It was during this time that two armed men approached the city vehicle, while another two headed towards the toilet block. Multiple shots were fired, resulting in the tragic deaths of the private security guards.
The impact of criminal attacks in parts of Philippi, including the Kosovo informal settlement, has severely affected various city services. In response to ongoing safety threats, tactical response and security escort services are being provided to both staff and contractors in Philippi.
Mayor Hill-Lewis has emphasized that while these attacks are disrupting water and sanitation services and upgrades in the community, the city will not stop delivering services. However, the frontline staff are under attack and need the assistance of the community.
Residents of Philippi are urged to utilize the city’s 24-hour tip-offs hotline to report any criminal activity that is hindering progress in their community.
The hotline allows individuals to remain anonymous, and the city is offering a reward of up to R100,000 for information that leads to the arrest and successful prosecution of the perpetrators behind these attacks.
The city extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the two security contractor staff who tragically lost their lives in the shooting.
Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Councillor Zahid Badroodien, expressed shock at the senseless act and highlighted the arrangements made for staff to receive medical attention and trauma counseling. These types of violent incidents deeply impact everyone, especially those working at the forefront of service delivery.
The alarming number of attacks on staff while on duty, particularly in informal settlements, has led the city to allocate over R8.5 million for private security escorts in the 2023/24 financial year alone.
Badroodien emphasized that the ruthless targeting of staff has now resulted in the loss of two more innocent lives. He also mentioned recent incidents targeting staff in other parts of the city, including robberies where personal belongings were stolen.
In light of these events, the city encourages anonymous tip-offs through the 24/7 hotline or via email. By working together, the city and the community can root out the criminals blocking progress and ensure the safety and well-being of all those involved in service delivery.
