The community of Manenberg is reeling after the tragic death of 28-year-old Shanell Prins, affectionately known as Nelly, who allegedly died from complications after being shot with a rubber bullet by police earlier this month.
Shanell, a devoted mother who was preparing to celebrate her 29th birthday on 19 February, was at her home in Sea Rose Street on 2 February 2026 when police officers arrived to arrest her neighbours in connection with a robbery case. What began as a police operation soon turned into a fatal incident that has left her family devastated and demanding answers.
According to her brother, Brandall, officers had allegedly targeted the wrong individuals. He claims the neighbours tried to explain their innocence, but their pleas were ignored. Instead, tensions escalated as officers allegedly assaulted the suspects during the arrest.
Brandall recounted that as the neighbours were being beaten and threatened, their mother attempted to question the officers about the alleged mistreatment. It was during this chaotic scene that Shanell heard the screams and rushed outside to intervene. Her only intention, according to her family, was to speak out against what she believed was unjust treatment.
When Shanell began filming the arrest on her phone, the situation allegedly spiraled out of control. Brandall claims that an officer began firing rubber bullets indiscriminately. Shanell attempted to flee but was allegedly cornered by another officer. In trying to protect herself, she turned her back and shielded her head. She was struck in the leg by a rubber bullet. During the commotion, her father and an elderly woman were also reportedly injured.
Shanell was rushed to hospital on the same day. Though she was later discharged, her family says she continued to suffer severe pain. Brandall shared heartbreaking details, saying his sister repeatedly expressed that the pain was unbearable. Despite returning to hospital days later, the family alleges that she was only given basic wound care and advised to purchase pain medication.
Her condition worsened, and she was eventually admitted to Groote Schuur Hospital for surgery. Tragically, Shanell passed away shortly thereafter. It is alleged that she died from septic shock after the wound from the rubber bullet became infected.
Manenberg Station Commander Brigadier Jayce Naidoo confirmed that an inquest docket has been opened to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death. He stated that Shanell had sustained a rubber bullet injury to her left leg during a confrontation with members of the South African Police Service (SAPS). She was readmitted to hospital on 10 February 2026, where she later died due to medical complications linked to the injury.
Police have indicated that detectives are following up on information received and are awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination.
Shanell’s passing has left a deep void in her family and community. She leaves behind a grieving family, including her young daughter, who must now grow up without her mother. As investigations continue, residents of Manenberg are calling for transparency and accountability in the hope that justice will be served.
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