Police in Cape Town are asking the public to help trace two men who may have information about a deadly mass shooting that took place in the early hours of Saturday morning in the Kanana informal settlement, located on the outskirts of Gugulethu.
Cape Town police turn to the public for help in tracing these persons of interest
The two men, Linde Madolo and Loyiso Matinisi, have been identified as “persons of interest.” This term means they are not suspects at this point, but police believe they may know something important about the crime.
Officers from the Serious and Violent Crimes Unit—who are in charge of investigating major crimes such as murder—are hoping to speak with the two men as part of their ongoing investigation.
Anyone who knows where Linde Madolo or Loyiso Matinisi may be is urged to contact Sergeant Sithembele Sambunjelwa of the Serious and Violent Crimes Unit on 073 416 5224.
Police have promised that all information will be handled with strict confidentiality—this means your name will not be shared, and your safety will be protected.
Kanana mass shooting: Here’s what we know
According to police spokesperson Colonel Andrè Traut, the shooting happened around 03:30. Seven men were killed inside a home where they had been socialising in the kitchen.
The attackers are believed to have planned the attack in advance and waited for the right moment to strike. This is referred to as a “premeditated” attack—meaning it was thought out beforehand and not random or spontaneous.
Three other men who were asleep in different parts of the house at the time survived the shooting unharmed. For now, police are not releasing the names of the victims, likely because their families are still being notified.
A possible eighth body was found near a container close to the original scene. It’s not yet clear if this person’s death is connected to the same shooting. Police say they are still investigating and collecting forensic evidence, which includes anything physical from the scene—like bullet casings or fingerprints—that can help link suspects to the crime.
Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General (Adv.) Thembisile Patekile, visited the scene shortly after the attack and met with the investigating officers. He stressed the seriousness of the case and assured the public that every lead would be followed.
“Violent and firearm-related crimes remain a top priority for the Western Cape SAPS, and no resource will be spared in the pursuit of justice,” he said.
