Violence erupted in Manenberg on Tuesday afternoon after residents intervened during the arrest of a suspect following a shootout between gang members and law enforcement officials.

According to a reliable source who spoke to Daily Voice, the incident unfolded during a high-density Metro Police operation in Alleta Court, where officers acted on intelligence indicating that a suspect was in possession of a firearm.

Upon searching the premises, police arrested a 29-year-old man found in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

However, as officers escorted the suspect to their vehicle, he allegedly called out to his  fellow gang members, urging them to open fire on the police. Officers returned fire, reportedly injuring two unidentified individuals who were taken for medical treatment.

As the arrest continued, chaos ensued. A large group of residents began throwing stones at the police officers in an attempt to free the suspect, injuring two Metro Police members during the confrontation.

Footage of the incident quickly spread across social media, showing residents attacking law enforcement officers and others running for cover as gunfire echoed through the gang-afflicted neighbourhood.

Following the initial violence, officers returned to the area and arrested several individuals identified as having taken part in the assault on law enforcement personnel.

Abdurahman Govind, public relations officer for the Manenberg Community Police Forum (CPF), who witnessed the event, expressed deep frustration at the situation. He noted the contradiction of residents calling for safety but reacting violently when law enforcement intervenes.

“My own car was stoned,” he said. “Even small children were running through the crossfire. People don’t realise they are putting themselves in danger.

“It becomes extremely hazardous — if someone is injured, they expect emergency response, but even paramedics hesitate to enter Manenberg because it is classified as a red zone.

“SAPS and paramedics risk their lives during these ongoing shootings,” he added.

Govind further noted that this was not an isolated incident. “On Monday, we experienced a similar situation when police attempted to arrest someone and were again pelted with stones.”

When Daily Voice contacted SAPS for comment, the reporter was directed to the City of Cape Town due to after-hours procedures.

A response had not been received by the time of publication.

IOL

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