Cape Town - Police are investigating the attempted murder of an elderly Chinese man at a popular Pinelands shopping centre on Monday afternoon. According to police, a case of attempted murder has been opened following the shooting at the Howard Centre.
Speaking to the Cape Argus, police spokesperson Malcom Pojie said the victim, a 62-year-old man was shot and seriously wounded near the library behind the shopping centre at about 3.15 pm.
Pojie said: “Pinelands police opened an attempted murder docket for further investigation following a shooting incident, which occurred at the back of the Howard Centre earlier today. The victim, a 62-year-old Chinese national was shot in the chest. He sustained serious injuries.”
“Initial reports of the incident reveal that the male victim was accosted by four unknown suspects who attempted to rob him and grab a black bag he was carrying when a scuffle ensued. Police later discovered that the bag contained documents and a laptop.”
Pojie said investigating officers believe that during the scuffle several shots were fired in the direction of the victim and that one bullet hit him in the chest.
He said: “The victim was hospitalised for medical treatment. The assailants fled the scene empty-handed and are being sought by the police.
“We appeal to anyone with information to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or through the mobile application, MySAPS, anonymously,” Pojie said.
Cape Argus