GAUTENG – The Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) has conducted numerous proactive and disruptive operations since Wednesday, 1 October 2025, with the goal of destroying gang-related activities in a number of communities, including Westbury, Eldorado Park, Riverlea, Mayfair, Claremont, Johannesburg Central, Crown Gardens, and Houghton.
These efforts have resulted in the arrest of 30 suspects on charges including possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, possession of drugs, contravening regulations on medication distribution, possession of counterfeit cigarettes, domestic violence-related assault, and malicious damage to property.
The AGU’s recent operations have led to the seizure of substantial quantities of illegal substances and items, including over 70 ziplocks of crystal meth, more than 80 full mandrax tablets, 37 half mandrax tablets, eight quarter mandrax tablets, four ziplocks of methcathinone, 45 substances suspected to be rocks drugs. In collaboration with Crime Intelligence Ekurhuleni, Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD), Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), and Hlasela Tactical Unit, 6370 nyaope tie-knots were seized, raising the quantity to a staggering total of 6600. A total of 72 cartons of counterfeit cigarettes, multiple boxes of stillpayne tablets and 21 rounds of illegal live ammunition, including three cartridges were also seized.
Colonel Magalefa, the Acting AGU commander, commended the operation’s outcomes, stating, “These arrests and the significant quantities of drugs and ammunition seized should serve as a stern warning to those contemplating criminal activities. We are unwavering in our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our communities.”
All suspects have been detained at local police stations and have made their appearances in the relevant courts.
The AGU encourages all residents to continue providing valuable information and to collaborate with the South African Police Service (SAPS). We urge the public to report any suspicious activities or tip-offs to the SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or to download the MySAPS App on their smart devices. Tipsters can choose to remain anonymous.
Together, we can work towards safer communities and a significant reduction in gang-related crimes.
