Hundreds of residents from Lavender Hill paid their respect at the janazah of 19 year old, Shafeeqa Kiel on Monday. The community stood together as they mourned the death of the latest victim of gang shooting in the area. Kiel and a close friend got caught in a gang crossfire on Sunday evening. Aunt, Donnay Francis says Kiel was not involved with the local gangs but suspects Kiel’s friend, who is recovering from the incident, has information on the events that led to her death. Police are still investigating the incident.

Kiel matriculated from Lavender Hill High last year. Francis added that Kiel was an obedient child but worries that gang violence in the area will continue to end the lives of the community’s most vulnerable.

“The situation with gangs in the area is getting worse. You are not safe here anymore. People are just coming and shooting innocent people. Clearly gang violence is not over,” Francis explained.

Cape Flats residents say ‘enough is enough’

Meanwhile, two accused in the murder of 10 year old Jaden Smith from Parkwood appeared in the Wynberg Magistrates Court for the second time on Tuesday. The case has once again been postponed to later this month for a formal bail application.

Residents from Parkwood and surrounding areas held another picket outside the court, in a bid to petition against granting the pair bail. Paul Phillips from The Voice of Parkwood says the community will continue action outside the court until justice is served. Smith will be laid to rest on Sunday. VOC (Ra’eesah Isaacs)