Duo behind Manenberg gang shooting to remain behind bars

The case against two suspects accused of being behind a Manenberg gang related shooting will resume next week.

PICTURE: Pixabay

Ikhraam Akilies and Brandon Jansen made a brief appearance in the Athlone Magistrates Court on Friday morning. A third suspect was released as there was not enough evidence linking him to the crime.

A five-year-old boy succumbed to injuries on Wednesday after he was shot and wounded in a shooting incident in Irvine Street, on Monday evening. Ameer Abrahams was walking with his father towards a nearby tuckshop, when they were caught between crossfire hitting the boy in the head. Two other women aged 31 and 54 were also injured in the thigh and lower back, respectively.

The duo faces charges of murder, two counts of attempted murder, and malicious injury to property.

‘’The allegation is that on Monday, 6 January 2025, accused 1 (Ikhraam Akilies) had an argument with the Hard Living (HL) gang regarding gang turf. Indication is that accused 1 is an IGB gang member. Indication further is that at that point is that there was an altercation and the HL then assaulted accused 1. Accused 1 left, returned to the IGB strong hold accompanied by accused 2 and outstanding suspect and went to get a firearm. As they returned to Irvine Street, where the incident occurred, they saw one of the HL gang members who assaulted accused 1, and accused 1 pulled out a firearm and then shot nine shots towards the HL gang members. In the process, 5-year-old Ameer Abrahams was shot in the back of the head, and child was hospitalised. A 9mm bullet was retrieved as the victim was declared brain dead. In respect to this matter, State is alleging common purpose,’’ said a prosecutor from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA)

The case resumes on 17 January 2025 for a formal bail application and for the suspects to get Legal Aid. Magistrate Keith Le Keur gave the go-ahead for proceedings to be televised and photographs to be taken.

Little Ameer was laid to rest on Friday.

 

Done by: Mitchum George