R100K reward announced as Mitchell’s Plain leaders unite against violence

The City of Cape Town is offering a R100 000 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the recent shootings in Mitchell’s Plain.

This after a memorial prayer vigil was held on Wednesday, July 9 at Shekinah Full Gospel Church, where community leaders, safety officials, City officials and residents gathered to honour the victims and call for coordinated action. 

Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape MEC for Cultural Affairs and Sport, described the community as facing “a sad time” but expressed gratitude to all agencies and volunteers addressing the violence. “Let us work together to find a resolution to this crisis,” he said.

Ward 76 councillor Avron Plaatjies said SAPS needed the continued community support to carry out its mandate.

Brigadier Brian Muller, Mitchell’s Plain SAPS station commander, said one of the victims had denied being shot by a suspect, illustrating the fear gripping communities. 

“It is very sad that people are turning a blind eye,” he said. “I would assume we are afraid for our lives. Something is not right in our community if we think policing is the only answer. Then we are confused.” He said while some may hold negative views of the police, his officers remain committed to their duties. “We must change the narrative. Community leaders, let’s address these gangsters in our area. I want to salute my officers.”

Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews said, “Genoeg is genoeg—enough is enough. Every single person deserves a safe passage to school and a safe passage where they stay. Thank you to every single volunteer. This should not become our norm.” 

He said the City is offering a R100 000 reward for information that will lead to the identification and prosecution of the perpetrators. “What does a healthy alternative look like? What is the pathway to turn away from gangs? Prevention is better than cure. We must give direct help to youth at risk and offer a different pathway to them.”

Dr Alfonso Schilder, Pastor of Mount Hope Church in Woodlands said churches are not reactionary institutions. “Politicians have a role to play. We are dealing with mindsets. The conditions we grow up in shape us, but there are alternatives. By God’s grace I am a reformed gangster. The church embraced me. It starts in the home. We need to equip our people. You might not come from a great family, but a great family can come from you.”

In a press statement, Deputy mayor Andrews said: “The recent shootings in Mitchell’s Plain are a direct threat to the safety and wellbeing of our communities. This level of violence will not be tolerated—not in Mitchell’s Plain, and not anywhere in our city. Every resident has the right to feel safe in their own neighbourhood, and we will act decisively to protect that right.”

“Anyone with information about the identity of the shooters is asked to please contact SAPS or the City.”

Alderman JP Smith, the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, said the City is supporting SAPS with additional resources to expedite investigations. He urged residents to provide information that could assist in identifying the perpetrators.

The City’s anonymous tip‑off line is 0800 110 077. Callers may remain anonymous. Information received is referred to the relevant agency. If an arrest or confiscation results, the application for the reward is submitted to the Rewards for Information Committee. Payment may take several weeks after all administrative processes are completed. The system is not open to individuals under 18.