Gang members open fire on ward councillor
Cape Town - Police are probing the attempted assassination of a City ward councillor amid a gang fight in Kensington on Wednesday night.
Ward councillor Cheslyn Steenberg was forced to run for cover as two brazen gunmen fired more than 20 shots just minutes after he arrived to quell a gang fight.
The 31-year-old father said he became the target after responding to desperate pleas for help from residents shortly before 10pm on Wednesday.
“I was at home when I received calls from worried residents who informed me that the Wonder Kidz and the 28s were getting ready to fight and they were worried. I didn’t go immediately and first called the police to inform them. Then I got another three calls and the people were scared and begging for help, so I went.”
Steenberg said on arrival he met with the two groupings and spoke to the leaders.
“The 28s explained that the Wonder Kidz had come over to look for trouble. We spoke to them and escalated the situation for the sake of the community.
“Everyone left and as I was going to my car, I saw two white cars speeding down the road and was still happy because I thought here come the detectives.
“The cars were packed with men and two gunmen got out as they shot at me.”
Steenberg escaped into a nearby house and later went to Kensington police station to report the incident.
Police spokesperson Joseph Swartbooi confirmed the shooting.
“Reports suggested that the complainant, a 31-year-old man, was in conversation with two males in Glider Street, Factreton, on Wednesday at around 9.45am.
“According to the complainant, none of the two men were armed.
“When he returned to his motor vehicle, two white motor vehicles stopped and the occupants fired numerous gunshots. The complainant fled into a nearby premises for his own safety and did not sustain any injuries.
“The unknown suspects fled the scene and they are yet to be arrested.
“Kensington police are investigating a case of attempted murder.”
Steenberg said while he was grateful nobody was wounded, he would not be deterred.
“I will not stop with my ward and community work, and I was in shock, yes, but I am ready to continue the fight.
“The way our communities have come under siege is not on. I want the perpetrators to know that God is bigger than a gangster.”
monique.duval@inl.co.za