Community shocked by slaying of deacon

The people complain about the high crime rate and the police deny there is a problem.

Where to from here then? Vigilantism?

Like I’ve said before, you are on your own in SA. You must look after your own safety, not put yourself in situations of danger (which can mean anywhere outside your home) and definitely not count on the puhlice and gubbermunt to give a shit.

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Residents of Newlands East are furious at the senseless killing of a local deacon, who was gunned down on his way from work on Wednesday night.

Marshal Tys was walking on Newlands East Drive when he was attacked by three men who wanted his bag.

According to witnesses, when he turned around he was shot and the men ran away without taking anything.

Bernice Isaacs, chairperson of the Garuppa Flats that are across the road from where the shooting took place, said she was very upset by what happened - mainly because he had to walk in the dark as all the street lights were not working.

"We are living in a dangerous area that has become a target for criminals. Marshal, whom we all knew for his good work in the community, did not deserve to die the way he did. When we tell the police about the crime rate in the area, we are simply ignored," she said.

Colin Gaillard, who is a councillor for the area, said the incident was the first, and that it would not be the last.

"People have complained to me about the crime rate in the community. I think it is high time the police took action, because an honourable man has died as a result of this crime," he said.

"I will ensure that all the street lights are working as criminals are taking advantage of the fact that the road is dark."

Martin Adams, who was a close friend of Tys, said that he was really hurting over the senseless killing.

"Marshal was like a brother to me. He was a man who loved people with all he had and gave the people that he came across valuable lessons of life. I'm angry that he has been taken away from us by criminals. They don't know that they have murdered a hard-working man of honour," he said.

"I just want the police to come and see to the crime in the area, because we don't want to lose more people as a result of this."

Police spokesperson Superintendent Vincent Mdunge denied that the crime rate in the area was very high.

"The victim was walking with two people and they were approached by three suspects who beat up one other guy before shooting the deceased," he said.

Mdunge said police were investigating a murder and robbery case.

"With regards to claims that crime is high in the area. I disagree, because as far as I know it is under control. This was just an isolated incident," he said.

Tys leaves his wife Nikki and three children.