Minister Marais commends Law Enforcement for continued success in removing illegal firearms from our streets

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 ongoing efforts in removing illegal firearms from communities across the province.

Minister Marais said, “The shocking prevalence of illegal firearms continues to be a major contributor to gang-related shootings and murders, particularly in areas like Mitchells Plain, Nyanga and Hanover Park. Getting these weapons out of the hands of criminal elements is critical step to beating back crime and restoring safety in our communities.” 

In a series of successful operations over the past weekend, SAPS and Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP) officers seized firearms and ammunition in:

• Mitchells Plain (Tafelsig): On 20 September 2025, SAPS members arrested a 34-year-old male for the possession of an unlicensed 9mm pistol and eight rounds of ammunition. The arrest followed a stop-and-search operation in which officers noticed the suspect acting suspiciously.
• Mitchells Plain (Beacon Valley): Later that same day at 18:40, officers arrested a 43-year-old male for the possession of a prohibited firearm and 11 rounds of ammunition. This too occurred during routine stop-and-search patrols.
• Hanover Park: On 21 September 2025, LEAP officers arrested a suspect in response to a ShotSpotter alert. The suspect was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and 14 rounds of ammunition.
• Bellville: The most notable success came in the early hours of Monday, 22 September 2025, when members of the Operational Coordination Combat Team conducted an intelligence-driven operation at a premises in Bellville. During the search, officers confiscated six AK-47 rifles, eight 9mm pistols, and a significant quantity of ammunition.

“These successes are a testament to the dedication, vigilance, and bravery of our officers. Each illegal firearm taken off the streets is one less weapon that can be used to harm or terrorise our communities,” Minister Marais added.

Minister Marais reiterated the importance of strong partnerships between law enforcement and communities.

“I encourage our residents to support the police and law enforcement in their work by remaining vigilant, reporting suspicious activity, and standing united against crime. Together, we can make our streets safer”, Minister Marais concluded.

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