Two fatal shootings at Kraaifontein schools this morning have sparked concern among fearful community members.
The first incident occurred at about 07:00 at the entrance of Ekuthuleni Primary School in Bloekombos where the principal was shot and killed as he arrived at the school.
According to police three assailants approached the victims’ vehicle and opened fire at him, which led to the death of the 54-year-old man and injury to a female passenger, who was admitted to hospital. The suspects fled the scene in an unknown vehicle.
Following the shooting, detectives of the provincial serious and violent crimes unit combed the area for clues.
In another incident less than half an hour later, a 41-year-old man was shot near the entrance of Fanie Theron Primary school in Kort Street Windsor Park.
“According to reports, the 41-year-old driver of a white Hyundai vehicle left the school when an unidentified suspect approached the vehicle and fired several gunshots at the vehicle. The driver lost control of the vehicle and went through a fence. Police members on duty attended the scene and found the driver with numerous gunshot wounds to his body. He was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel. The suspect fled the scene in an unidentified vehicle,” says police spokesperson FC van Wyk.
Shock, anger
Western Cape ministers of police oversight and community safety Anroux Marais and education David Maynier have expressed shock and anger about the killing of the principal of Ekuthuleni Primary School.
“This case is receiving the highest priority. My deepest condolences go to the family and loved ones of the deceased, as well as to the whole school community. I hope the injured recovers fully. I have the greatest confidence in the Western Cape Serious and Violent Crimes detectives who are on the case. The community must please assist. Any member of the public with information must please call investigating officer Detective Colonel Eddie Clark on 082 469 1531 or Crime Stop on 08600-10111,” says Marais.
Maynier added, “This is a tragedy for the school and community. Our district team is on the ground at the school to offer support to the staff and learners today and in the coming days. We trust that the police will leave no stone unturned in locating and apprehending the perpetrators.”
Chairperson of the Law-and-Order Foundation in Kraaifontein Gavin Riddles expressed his relieve that no learners were injured.
“These shootings is a major concern and residents are scared to leave their homes in fear of becoming victims or being hit by stray bullets. This morning’s attacks at the two school’s signalled red flags in the safety and policing in the area. Safety at schools and around the perimeters must be addressed urgently and interim measures be put in place,” said Riddles.
