Woman, 28-years-old, gunned down during gang crossfire in Hanover Park

A woman in Hanover Park was said to be in the wrong place at the wrong time when she was gunned down during gang crossfire on Sunday, 17 November 2019.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), a case of murder has been opened for investigation following a shooting incident that occurred on 17 November 2019, at around 16:00 in Donigal Court, Hanover Park.

SAPS spokesperson, Mihlali Majikela said: “According to reports, members of Philippi police responded to a complaint of a murder at the mentioned address.”

“Upon arrival, they found the body of a 28-year-old woman lying on the ground with a gunshot wound to the upper region of her body. Circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation and no arrests have been made as yet,” said Majikela.  

Hanover Park Gangwatch recalls woman’s murder 

According to Hanover Park Gangwatch, the woman who was killed, was known to many as Gouwa. The Facebook page reported that she was shot through the head and in the upper face, and died immediately on the scene. 

“According to members of Donigal Court, it is alleged that they came onto the pitch of the court and opened fire, lots of shots and Gouwa was unfortunately in the firing line,” said a Gangwatch member.   

“People identified the suspect and fights broke out between the two sides but police overlooked it because of all the scuffles that were going on.” added the Gangwatch member. 

Facebook reactions to the murder 

After Hanover Park Gangwatch posted about the murder, Facebook users commented, releasing their frustrations. 

One Facebook user commented saying: “I was actually there when this took place, the Americans (gang) came till by the court and started shooting non-stop. Unfortunately, she (Gouwa) was at the wrong place at the wrong time.”

“We are like prisoners in our own places. Everytime, it’s innocent people, children, women, young girls and boys. It’s never the right people or enemies. I myself lost a baby sister by Getto’s. Why are they killing? I’m just sick and tired,” said another user. 

“This is simply not fair. Innocent women and children getting shot, paying with their lives, while gangsters run freely. Everything is just so flippin messed up. It’s exams, how are the children supposed to stay focused? Something needs to be done!!!!!” added another user. 

Police urge anyone with information that can assist the investigation to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111.