Police investigate fatal Overcome Heights shooting

A 34-year-old man was shot and killed in Overcome Heights last week in what appears to be another gang-related incident in the area.

According to the Muizenberg Community Police Forum (CPF), the shooting happened on Monday evening, November 3, while a team of police officers was on patrol in the area.

CPF communications officer Wayne Turner said the officers “came under heavy gunfire from suspected gang members” while responding to reports of shots fired.

“They returned fire and, once the scene was stabilised, found one male, aged 34, with a fatal gunshot wound,” he said.

“There were no casualties among the responding police officers.”

Mr Turner said the deceased, believed to be a suspected gangster, was later linked to another murder case. Two dockets have been opened - one for the attempted murder of police officers and another as an inquest to determine the exact cause of death.

He added that Overcome Heights and surrounding areas have seen “an escalation in violent crime in recent months,” often connected to gang activity, territorial disputes, and the illegal drug trade.

“This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the urgent need for continued collaboration between Police, Law Enforcement, Neighbourhood Watches, and community structures to dismantle criminal networks and improve public safety,” Mr Turner said.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that a murder case has been opened, while the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has launched an inquiry into the incident.

According to IPID spokesperson Phaladi Shuping, Muizenberg police members were stationed in Overcome Heights around 4pm when they heard gunfire.

“When officers went to investigate, they allegedly came under fire from members of the JFK gang,” he said.

“Police returned fire and pursued the suspects between shacks, where further shots were exchanged. Moments later, a man - believed to be one of the suspects - was found with a gunshot wound to the head and showed no signs of life.”

Mr Turner commended the swift response by police and the Anti-Gang Unit, urging residents to remain calm, cooperate with law enforcement, and share any information that could help bring those responsible to justice.

“Violence should never be normalised,” he said. “We must work together to build safer, more resilient neighbourhoods and offer young people positive alternatives to crime.”

Anyone with information can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile app to report tips anonymously.