Minister Marais commends Western Cape SAPS for recent operational successes
The Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, has commended the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Western Cape for recent operational successes.
On Tuesday, 25 February 2025, members of the Maitland Flying Squad, in cooperation with City of Cape Town Law Enforcement officers, arrested two male suspects at a filling station in Woodstock for being in possession of two firearms and ammunition without having the required licenses.
This was followed by the apprehension of three suspects on Wednesday, 26 February 2025, for housebreaking, theft, possession of stolen goods and for being in possession of an imitation firearm.
On Thursday, 27 February 2025, members of the Organised Crime Investigations Unit, in Vanrhynsdorp SAPS and the Namakwaland K9 Unit seized 3155 mandrax tablets from a premises in Vanrhynsdorp. On the same day, Stellenbosch police arrested three armed robbers and confiscated three firearms.
On 1 March, Operation Shanela forces seized one firearm and a consignment of drugs in Mfuleni.
Just two days later, a large number of firearms, ammunition and drugs was seized during an intelligence-driven operation in Bellville South and Stikland. Items seized included:
- 3x AK47 rifles
- 1x R5 rifle
- 1x Assault
- 12x 9mm pistols
- 3x Uzzi machine guns
- 4x Shotguns
- 2x Revolvers
Minister Marais said, “I am encouraged by the continued efforts of the SAPS and other law enforcement agencies to rid our communities of illegal firearms and drugs.”
She continued, “Most of these successes were the result of residents working with authorities. This emphasises the importance of collaboration between the SAPS, law enforcement agencies and communities. I call on residents to make use of the MySAPS app or call 08600 10111 to report any criminal activity anonymously.”
Media Enquiries:
Kurt Nefdt, Acting MLO to Minister Anroux Marais
Cell: 084 285 1975
Email: Kurt.Nefdt@westerncape.gov.za