WC operation sees 3868 suspects arrested, 186 firearms recovered

South African Police Service

WC operation sees 3868 suspects arrested, 186 firearms recovered
WC operation sees 3868 suspects arrested, 186 firearms recovered

It is the endeavour of Western Cape police to seek a safer environment for all communities within the Province, as forces fiercely fight the battle to deter the proliferation of firearms in the hands of criminals.

Focussed operations to address gang related, and serious and violent crimes in hotspot areas have proven successful and police are making headway in reducing the number of unlicensed firearms on the streets.

During the period 22 February 2021 until 26 March 2021 a total of 186 firearms and 3058 rounds of ammunition have been confiscated from 147 suspects who are now paying the price for criminal behaviour.

A total of 3868 suspects have been arrested for contact crimes, which are often associated with weapons, such as murder, attempted murder, assault and robbery during the same period.

The acting Provincial Commissioner of the Western Cape police, Major General Tembisile Patekile praised the operational forces for their dedication and commitment in ensuring that the priorities of the Province are addressed. “Firearm related crime will remain in our sights and we will never allow criminals to terrorise communities and hold them at ransom with violence,” says Maj Gen Patekile.

The police in the Western Cape appeal to the public to assist with information that will bring us closer to our goals to reduce serious and violent crimes so that parents can allow their children to play outside without the fear of becoming statistics at the hands of gun slinging criminals with scant regard for others, and communities can enjoy a tranquil life.

If you know of a firearm that is in the illegal possession of someone, please do not hesitate to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or the mobile MySAPS app.

SAPS Newsroom

SOURCESouth African Police Service