Minister Marais commends continued crackdown on illegal firearms and ammunition

Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety ,Anroux Marais, has commended the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies for their continued and determined efforts in cracking down on the proliferation of illegal firearms and ammunition across Cape Town.

In the past week alone, at least 18 unlicensed firearms have been confiscated. 

During joint operations on Thursday 21 August 2025, SAPS members attached to the Tygerberg District Office in collaboration with Durbanville SAPS Crime Prevention Unit confiscated four firearms. Over the past weekend, Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP) officers confiscated one rifle and a 9mm firearm after investigating reports of an active shooting in Lusuko, Philippi East.

Cape Town continues to grapple with a surge in gang-related violence. The availability of illegal weapons remains one of the most significant contributing factors to the alarming rates of gun violence and loss of life across the province.

Minister Marais said,” I acknowledge the relentless efforts of our law enforcement agencies who put their lives on the line daily to confront this challenge head-on. Their dedication is not only commendable but critical in the fight to restore safety and stability to our streets. We must, however, do more. Despite limited resources, we will never give in to gangsters and organised crime. We will continue working together with all stakeholders to tackle this scourge with urgency and determination.”

“I call on all residents to play an active role in this fight. We urge community members to report any criminal activity or illegal firearms to the police. By working together, we can ensure that even more deadly weapons are removed from our communities and that lives are saved”, Minister Marais concluded.

Media Enquiries:
Kurt Nefdt, Acting MLO to Minister Anroux Marais
Cell: 084 285 1975
Email: Kurt.Nefdt@westerncape.gov.za