Ravensmead Community Police Forum CPF chairperson Johannes Bastian said tension in the community remained heightened. He said the CPF tried to engage the community to understand the underlying causes of the "unrest". "It came to my attention that the trigger for the violence was the confiscation of alcohol intended for a community event, specifically a touch rugby tournament, when a community leader including a representative from the events organising team, approached the police to request the return of the confiscated alcohol, but their pleas were rejected. "This refusal led to the escalation of tensions, with community and gang members resorting to burning tyres and blocking roads around the local council flats in 8th and 10th avenue," said Bastian. According to Bastian, the change in police leadership at the Ravensmead police station caused frustration. "The Ravensmead Police Area is facing significant resource constraints. "There is a lack of vehicles available to respond to complaints effectively, and the outdated phone system makes it difficult for community members to reach the police when needed," said Bastian. SA Human Rights Commission SAHRC commissioner Chris Nissen said he planned an engagement in the area for this week. "We condemn the shooting of live ammunition at police officers and law enforcement which was the case in Ravensmead. "It is a very difficult situation in the community but what must be remembered is that laws must be followed and there are repercussions when they engage in illegal activity". Mayco member for Safety and Security, JP Smith confirmed they responded to the scene. He said said the injured LEAP officer was still in ICU and "recuperating well".

Source: Cape Times