Security Guard Killed in Deadly Ambush in Khayelitsha

A tragic shooting incident unfolded in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, on Wednesday, 19 March, leaving a security guard dead and another injured after they were ambushed by gunmen in broad daylight.

The attack took place on Japhtha Masemola Road, where unknown assailants opened fire on the security guards’ vehicle while it was in motion. The hail of bullets caused the driver, a 43-year-old security guard, to lose control of the vehicle, which overturned during the attack. Sadly, the driver succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

According to eyewitnesses, the shooting was sudden and targeted. A street vendor nearby reported that the attackers aimed directly at the driver’s side, leading to his fatal injuries. “The driver was shot multiple times and couldn’t survive. His partner, though wounded, managed to exit the vehicle with his firearm,” the vendor said.

Displaying remarkable bravery, the injured guard fired back at the attackers, forcing them to flee the scene. “He shot a few rounds to scare them off. I believe the gunmen were after their firearms, but the surviving guard’s quick reaction saved him,” the witness added.

Images from the scene showed the vehicle overturned, evidence of the terrifying incident that unfolded in the middle of the busy road.

This attack comes just a month after a similar incident in Langa, where two security guards were shot and killed in February 2025, raising concerns about increasing attacks targeting security personnel in Cape Town.

Police spokesman Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi confirmed the details of the Khayelitsha incident. He stated that officers from Lingelethu West police station were on patrol when they received a complaint and rushed to the scene.

“Upon arrival, police found the body of a 43-year-old male inside the vehicle with gunshot wounds. The victim was declared dead at the scene by medical personnel. Another man, believed to be the passenger and fellow security guard, also sustained gunshot wounds and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment,” said Swartbooi.

According to Swartbooi, the police are investigating cases of murder and attempted murder, with robbery considered a possible motive behind the attack.

Authorities have appealed to the public for assistance in tracking down the suspects. Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact CrimeStop at 08600 10111.

The incident has once again highlighted the dangerous conditions faced by security guards in the country, as criminals increasingly target them, often for their firearms or valuables they may be transporting.

As investigations continue, residents remain shaken by the violence that erupted in their community, with many calling for better protection and support for security personnel who risk their lives daily.