Bolstered deployment of specialised units such as the Anti-Gang Unit and Crime Intelligence in collaboration with local police and other law enforcement multipliers in a bid to quell volatile gang violence in the area, starts to show results with the seizure of firearms and the arrests of suspects.
On Friday, 23 August 2024, members of the Anti-Gang unit and their intelligence teams followed up information regarding firearms and possible suspects who might be linked to recent shootings in the area. The investigation led the members to a residence in Atlas Street, Tafelsig in Mitchells Plain where they conducted a search of the premises and the occupant. The members discovered a 6.35 Browning pistol with 10 rounds of ammunition which was hidden under the mattress of a bed. As a result of the discovery, the members arrested an adult male who is linked to one of the gang groupings in the area, for the unlawful possession of the firearm and ammunition.
The suspect is expected to make his court appearance in the Bishop Lavis Magistrates’ court once charged.
Meanwhile, another relief team of the Anti-Gang unit pounced on a residence situated in Lilian Court, Manenberg as part of an intelligence-driven operation. Upon arrival at the identified address, members embarked on a proper search of the premises during which they found and seized a 9mm pistol with ammunition which the suspect tossed out of the window. The serial number of the firearm was filed off.
The 27-year-old suspect was arrested and detained for the unlawful possession of a prohibited firearm and ammunition. The suspect was also linked to a murder which was perpetrated in Manenberg during October 2023.
The suspect is expected to make his court appearance in the Athlone Magistrate’s court on the mentioned charges, once charged.