Police are investigating a case of attempted murder after a man in his late 40s was shot during prayers at a Brooklyn mosque last week.
The perpetrator remains at large and the motive for the shooing is being investigated, says provincial police spokesman Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi.
He has urged anyone with information to come forward.
“Reports suggested that an unknown armed man entered the premises, fired numerous gunshots, which resulted in the victim sustaining gunshot wounds. He was rushed to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. The unknown suspect fled the scene and is yet to be arrested,” said Warrant Officer Swartbooi.
The Muslim Judicial Council of SA has called for places of worship to be respected.
Its president, Sheikh Riad Fataar, visited the mosque on Monday and said its sanctity had been violated.
“We call upon law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into this heinous crime and bring the perpetrators to justice. This act of violence in a place of worship, a sanctuary meant for peace and reflection, has left our community deeply traumatised and shaken.”
In a statement, the Western Cape Provincial CPF Board said: “We are hopeful that there will be no reprisals. We call on the police to bring all those involved to justice.”