The killing of the five youngsters last night was a dastardly act, and we urge the police to act swiftly to prevent further bloodshed.

This was the reaction of Western Cape Education MEC Cameron Dugmore when informed that a group of ten young men were attacked, five died on the scene, four sustained injuries in the legs and back, and they were taken to hospital for treatment.

Three of the injured parties were school-going children: grade 10-learner of Thandokulu HS in Mowbray, grade 11-learner of Sithembele Matiso HS, and grade 10-learner of Oscar Mpetha HS. One of the learners is still in hospital under 24-hour observation.

Apparently there are two groups involved in the shooting incidents, and this attack was a retaliation against the killing of another youth last week.

Said MEC Dugmore: "It appears the killings is part of a broader activity of juvenile gangs, but I am satisfied that the department has taken the necessary steps to ensure the stability of the school concerned.

"We have been told that the parents of some of the kids who were killed, withdrew them from school this year because of some tensions with another group.

"Officials of the Western Cape Education Department's Safe Schools Programme have visited the schools in the area today, and make an assessment on whether any additional security were needed."

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