Western Cape police have launched investigations into two separate mass shootings that claimed the lives of seven people and left five others injured in Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain, and Philippi East overnight.
The first shooting occurred in Lost City, Tafelsig, where five men were reportedly standing outside a tuck shop at the corner of Laura Street and 8th Avenue when they were approached by armed suspects.
According to police, the suspects opened fire on the group before fleeing the scene.
Three victims, aged 18, 19 and 51, sustained fatal gunshot wounds and were declared dead at the scene, while two survivors, aged 17 and 22, were rushed to hospital for treatment.
Western Cape police spokesperson André Traut confirmed the details of the attack.
"Five men were reportedly standing outside a local tuck shop when they were approached by armed suspects who opened fire on them. Three victims sustained fatal gunshot wounds and were declared deceased at the scene," Traut said.
Approximately 20 minutes later, police were called to a second shooting at a residence in the Marcus Garvey area of Philippi East.
Seven people were shot during the attack. Four victims, aged between 17 and 20, died from their injuries, while three others were transported to hospital for medical treatment.
"Police responded to a shooting incident at a residence in Marcus Garvey, Philippi East, where seven people were shot. Four victims succumbed to their injuries, while three others were admitted to hospital," Traut said.
Police have not yet established a motive for either attack and have confirmed that both incidents remain under active investigation.
"The circumstances surrounding both incidents are the subject of ongoing investigations, and detectives are pursuing all available leads to identify and apprehend those responsible," Traut said.
To prevent further violence and reassure residents, police have increased deployments in both affected communities, with officers maintaining a heightened and visible presence while investigations continue.
Authorities have appealed to anyone with information that could assist the investigations to come forward.