On Sunday night, a clash between police and residents in Elsie River, Cape Town resulted in the death of a 16-year-old girl and left a young boy critically injured.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is now investigating the incident, which occurred during a raid in the community of De Range.
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The confrontation began when Elsies River police discovered a stash of mandrax tablets and ammunition during a raid at a flat in Fairview Court. As officers attempted to arrest a suspect and load him into a van, members of the community intervened, leading to chaos. In the midst of the commotion, shots were fired by the officers, allegedly using live rounds, causing tragedy to unfold.
Althea Adams, a 16-year-old bystander, was struck by a bullet that tore through her chest. Despite being rushed to a nearby medical facility, she tragically succumbed to her injuries. Another victim, a 9-year-old boy, was also struck in the head and is currently in intensive care.
The incident has sparked outrage and raised questions about the actions of the police officers involved. Althea’s mother, Sandra, asserts that the use of live rounds was unnecessary, as there was no violence against the officers. She demands justice for her daughter and calls for the responsible party to be held accountable for their actions.
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The IPID has confirmed that they are investigating the matter, though they claim that rubber bullets were used by the police. According to their spokesperson, Phaladi Shuping, the police were attacked by a group of community members, prompting them to use non-lethal force in an attempt to disperse the crowd.
As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial that the truth behind this tragic incident is uncovered. The loss of a young life and the injury of an innocent child demand a thorough examination of the events that transpired. It is only through a fair and transparent investigation that justice can be served and the community can begin to heal.