More illegal firearms off of Western Cape streets but Minister Marais repeats call for improved prosecutions
Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, welcomed the seizure of approximately 60 illegal firearms across the Western Cape during April 2026.
A hand grenade and large quantities of ammunition were also confiscated. Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP) officers contributed significantly to these joint operations, confiscating at least 10 of these firearms.
While these seizures represent important progress in disrupting criminal activity, they also highlight the deeply troubling scale of illegal firearms and ammunition in circulation and in the wrong hands. These weapons continue to fuel violence, gang activity, extortion, and the senseless killing of innocent residents, often caught in the crossfire.
Minister Marais has urged the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure that these confiscations are followed by thorough investigations and successful prosecutions. Minister Marais said, “Arrests alone are not enough. Convictions must follow if we are to break the cycle of violence.”
Minister Marais called on the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to approach cases involving the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition with the seriousness they deserve. These crimes cannot be treated in isolation or as minor offences. They must be viewed through the lens of the devastation they cause. “Sentences must reflect the severity of this impact. It cannot be that perpetrators responsible for causing such heartache are not punished accordingly,” Minister Marais continued.
She also raised concerns over suspects being granted bail for violent offences linked to ongoing gang violence and extortion. Minister Marais urges both SAPS and the NPA to urgently address this issue. “We cannot allow individuals accused of multiple violent crimes to return to communities, where they are able to continue orchestrating and committing deadly attacks,” said Minister Marais.
Minister Marais extended her sincere appreciation to the dedicated SAPS members, Members of the Cape Town Metro Police, Law Enforcement and LEAP officers who continue to work tirelessly to remove illegal firearms from our streets. Their efforts are making a difference in protecting communities.
The Minister thanked residents who continue to support law enforcement agencies by reporting criminal activity. Community involvement remains critical in the fight against illegal firearms.
Citizens are encouraged to report information anonymously through the following platforms:
- SAPS Crime Stop (toll-free): 08600 10111
- City of Cape Town Public Emergency Communication Centre: 021 480 7700
- MySAPS mobile application
Media Enquiries:
Kurt Nefdt
Acting MLO to Minister Anroux Marais
0842851975