The Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) in Gqeberha have made significant inroads in seizing illegal firearms and ammunition thereby disempowering gang affiliates. During this month, a total of 12 firearms and 311 rounds of ammunition were seized.
During this week, 8 firearms were confiscated from gang hotspots in the Northern areas.
In an intelligence driven operation conducted during the early hours on Tuesday morning, 24 May 2022, AGU members executed a search warrant at a house in Saul Street in Parkside. Two firearms were confiscated from the main house as the owner did not comply with the safekeeping in terms of the Firearms Control Act. His firearm license had also expired. An enquiry docket was opened for further investigation.
An outbuilding on the same premises was also searched and a further 5 firearms 2 x magazines and 131 rounds of ammunition were found. The serial numbers on all the firearms were filed off.
A 28-year-old suspect was arrested and detained on a charge of possession of prohibited firearms and illegal possession of ammunition.
During the early hours of this morning, 27 May 2022, AGU members received and followed up on information of a firearm in the back yard of a church at the corners of Booysen Park Drive and Coriander Road in Bethelsdorp.
The yard was thoroughly searched and a navy blue bag was found with a rifle inside. An enquiry docket was opened and the firearm confiscated.
It is a known fact that firearms are closely linked to gang violence and these weapons are acquired through illegal means.
The proliferation of firearms remains an operational priority for the police hence every effort must be made to reduce the circulation of illegal firearms.
