Minister Marais strongly condemns senseless killing of 4-year-old on Hanover Park

Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety Anroux Marais has strongly condemned the senseless and cowardly shooting that claimed the life of a 4-year-old boy in Moray Court, Hanover Park, on Wednesday, 8 October 2025.

Minister Marais said, “This senseless violence must stop. My heart breaks for the family of this young boy, and for all families who have lost children to gang violence. These thugs  show a total disregard for the very communities that raised them. Our children are paying the price their callous acts.”

The child was caught in the crossfire when suspects, believed to be linked to gangs, opened fire in public. The young victim was rushed to a medical facility for treatment but tragically succumbed to his injury.

Minister Marais welcomed the swift action taken by the South African Police Service (SAPS), which led to the arrest of two 17-year-old suspects shortly after the shooting.

“It unacceptable that our children are being caught in the crossfire of gang violence. I strongly condemn this heinous act and commend SAPS for their rapid response”, said Minister Marais.

Minister Marais has urged the SAPS to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served, not only for the victim and his family, but also for the safety and wellbeing of the broader Hanover Park community.

“The investigation must go beyond bringing these suspects to book. We need to know who enabled these young individuals to get their hands on a firearm. The source of that weapon must be tracked down, and those responsible must be held accountable. It is tragedies like this that highlight the desperate need for SAPS to be better resourced,” Marais added.

She further called on all communities affected by gangsterism to support law enforcement by reporting information that could lead to further arrests, the recovery of illegal firearms, and the dismantling of gang networks.

“We cannot allow criminal elements to continue terrorising our neighbourhoods with impunity. I urge residents to stand with us and assist the police in rooting out gangsters and their enablers,” the Minister concluded.

Media Enquiries:
Kurt Nefdt, Acting MLO to Minister Anroux Marais
Cell: 084 285 1975
Email: Kurt.Nefdt@westerncape.gov.za