Love Island's Cape Town villa will be patrolled by armed guards following a recent nightclub shooting, as producers aren't taking any chances when it comes to safety.

Extreme Security Measures owner Timothy Lotter was murdered in one of the world's most dangerous cities on Sunday, where the 12 new singletons are set to reside for six weeks.

According to The Sun, non-profit organisation The Conservation has reported that the country will be protected by the army in a bid to reduce 'rampant violence and crime', after the police force's failed attempt.

Safety: Love Island's £5.3m Cape Town villa 'will be patrolled by armed guards following a recent nightclub shooting as producers aren't taking any chances when it comes to safety'

Over the weekend, Tim, 47, was shot multiple times as he tried to escape his attackers, with his death rumoured to be linked to the Sexy Boys gang.

A source told IOL: 'Prior to his death Lotter was allegedly linked to the nightclub security controlled by the Sexy Boys and other underworld figures.

'It is alleged he jumped ship and joined forces with rivals in the underworld and when the Sexy Boys got wind of it, decided to take him out.

Tragedy: An Extreme Security Measures owner was murdered in one of the world's most dangerous cities on Sunday, where the 12 singletons will reside (pictured: host Laura Whitmore last month)

'His move to rival underworld figures would have resulted in huge financial losses to the Sexy Boys.'

The news comes after it was reported that the Love Islanders are set to be protected by armed guards, as the show's bosses parry kidnap concerns.

As well as TV crews being given training on dealing with any potential security, breach guards will be on constant watch.

Efforts: Non-profit organisation The Conservation has reported that the country will be protected by the army in a bid to reduce 'rampant crime' (stock photo of Cape Town)

A Love Island spokesman told MailOnline: 'The safety and security of our Islanders and crew are of the utmost importance'.

An insider told The Daily Star: 'Producers aren’t taking any chances. It’s been arranged for armed guards to patrol the compound throughout the series.

'If it's known to everyone in the area that a big TV show is in town, then it will become a target.'

Looking for love: Among the latest intake is Sophie Piper, the sister of television presenter Rochelle Humes

The exact location of the villa is a staunch secret to protect the staff and contestants in the city where the murder rate has risen by 30 per cent in six years.

Among the latest intake is Sophie Piper, the sister of television presenter Rochelle Humes.

Laura Whitmore will host the series as Caroline Flack stands down after being charged with assaulting her boyfriend Lewis Burton, 27. The Irish presenter joins forces with her boyfriend and the show's voiceover artist, Iain Stirling.