Steenberg High School closes early amid escalating gun violence
Steenberg High School dismissed students early on Tuesday due to escalating gun violence in the area.
Image: File
Ongoing gun violence forced Steenberg High School to dismiss learners and staff early on Tuesday due to a surge of shootings in the area.
A statement by the school read: “Due to recent incidents of gun violence in the vicinity of our school, and in the interest of the safety and well-being of our learners and staff, the school will be closing early today at 2pm. We kindly request that all parents and guardians make the necessary arrangements to collect learners promptly at this time. The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure everyone’s safety.”
The decision follows after multiple shots were fired in the area in Grens Street, Quarrier Street, Cradock Road and Flute Street.
The gun violence escalated on Monday evening after a 21-year-old male sustained multiple gunshot wounds in Orchestra Street.
Police spokesperson, Joseph Swartbooi, said: “Steenberg police responded to a complaint on Monday. Upon their arrival in Orchestra Street at about 9:30pm they found a man who sustained multiple gunshot wounds. The 21-year-old man was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. The unknown suspects fled the scene and they are yet to be arrested. The motive for this attack is believed to be gang related.”
He added that a case of attempted murder is being investigated.
The crime scene in Orchestra Street where a 21-year-old sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
Image: Supplied
Sibelius High School, also in Steenberg, issued a statement on Monday saying they were aware of the unrest in the community and were in contact with police should the matter escalate.
The school said: “Please be assured that your child's safety is our top priority. We kindly request that you remain calm and avoid unnecessary panic. We will keep you updated and informed as necessary and kindly ask you to do the same.”
Steenberg Community Policing Forum (CPF) chairperson Nicola Small told the Cape Argus sister newspaper, the Daily Voice, they are aware of the incident involving the 21-year-old.
“It is believed to be gang related. We have no other information to share with the public at this time.
“The CPF asks community members to please come forward with any information that will assist the SAPS to bring the perpetrators to book,” Small said.
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