Home

Gang related murders spike PE

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Gangs in the northern areas of Port Elizabeth continue to be under the spotlight as the number of gang related murders are intensifying.

Helenvale and Gelvandale are the well-known gang lands of Port Elizabeth playing host to violent crimes since the 60’s.

The recent trial of notorious and hardened gang boss, Wendell Petersen, who is also currently standing trail for a triple murder in Port Elizabeth, has police on high alert.

There is a heavy police presence with all roads surrounding the Port Elizabeth High Court blockaded. The triple murder-trial of Petersen along with his co-accused have kept the police vigilant for drive by shootings and those charged from making a run from court.

Over the years, gangsters who stood trial have often tried such stunts so police are aware and are taking no chance this time. The Tactical Response Team cordoned off the High court ensuring that no one gets in or out.

Petersen, the ring leader of the Dustlives gang and his co accused have been charged with three counts of murder, three counts of conspiracy to commit murder, four counts of contravening the Prevention of Organised Crime Act and the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

Those who knew Petersen when he was younger still can’t believe that he turned to a life of crime.

“ He was a very sweet boy, we used to go to school together he was one of the most intelligent children I knew in school, he was good at everything he was good in sports and school work. I don’t know where it went wrong with him,” said a former school friend that wanted to remain anonymous.

There are currently 17 gangs operating in the northern areas of Port Elizabeth, roping in children as young as 10 years old.

Drugs remain instrumental in young children turning to gangsterism.

“I have a problem with my 15 year old, he is experiencing drug problems and he was in a gang, I then went to social services. I have four children that I need to protect if I don’t do anything about his habits now what will become of him its hard but I have to try and be strong,” added the friend.

Police spokeswoman Colonel Priscilla Naidu said it was a precautionary measure for the police and security officials to be at court when high-profile gang members are on trial.

A special gang unit has been set up which uses the shot spotter gunshot detecting system to blow the whistle on crime.

No official statistics have been published about gang related deaths in Nelson Mandela Bay.

Watch video below:

Author

MOST READ