GOOD CALLS FOR URGENT INTERVENTION FOLLOWING SHOOTING AND FATALITY IN STELLENBOSCH

GOOD Statement by Robin Hendrikse,

GOOD Stellenbosch Municipality Councillor

12 October 2026

I never imagined that a routine trip to collect special voters’ forms would turn into a terrifying encounter with violence on our streets.

I went out to collect the documents, focused on ensuring that residents who qualify for special votes are given the opportunity to participate in our democracy. Instead, I found myself driving into a shooting. In fear for my life, I drove as fast as I could towards the police station, desperate to reach safety. During this frightening ordeal, I collided with a van.

Approximately an hour later, a man was killed and later, a teenager was shot.
This is deeply disturbing. No resident should have to fear for their life simply because they are travelling through their own neighbourhood. Our streets cannot become places where gunfire, violence and the loss of innocent life are accepted as part of everyday existence.

GOOD is calling for urgent and decisive intervention to address the escalating concerns around violent crime and public safety in Stellenbosch.

I am calling on the South African Police Service (SAPS), Stellenbosch Municipality, the relevant law enforcement authorities and all responsible stakeholders to urgently assess the situation, strengthen visible policing, intensify crime-prevention operations and work together to protect our communities.

We need more than expressions of concern after another life has been lost. We need a coordinated, practical response that prioritises the safety of residents, improves communication with affected communities and ensures that incidents of serious violence are thoroughly investigated. I also call on the authorities to provide clear information about the incidents, where appropriate, and to communicate what immediate steps will be taken to prevent further violence.

Today, residents continue with the important process of submitting special vote applications. They should be able to do so without fear. Our democratic processes must never be overshadowed by violence, intimidation or the threat of losing one’s life while going about ordinary
duties.

I cannot remain silent when the safety of our communities is at stake. The death of another person is a tragedy that demands our attention, our compassion and, above all, meaningful action.

Our communities deserve to live in peace. Our residents deserve to feel safe. And every life lost to violence is one too many.

I urge SAPS, Stellenbosch Municipality and all relevant authorities to treat this matter with the urgency it demands. The time for a coordinated response is now!

Media Enquiries: media@forgood.org.za