Reporter – Felicity Jooste
Cape Town: Swift police action on Thursday, 30 July 2026, saw three suspects aged 28, 32 and 40 arrested for the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition in two unrelated operations in Makhaza, Khayelitsha, and Kensington.
Officers seized a rifle and other firearms along with ammunition. The South African Police Service (SAPS) described the arrests as part of ongoing efforts under the banners of #FightingCrime, #GunsOffTheStreets and #SaferCommunities.
The operation in Makhaza quickly became the talk of the street. Resident Thembisani Mnkabane Somjwaxa said it was the first time he had seen the National Intervention Unit (NIU) in his area: “It happened in my street here in Makhaza. It was the 1st time we saw NIU. Hai, those NIU guys are very scary.”
Not everyone viewed the heavily armed officers the same way. Mncedisi Mfana omdala commented bluntly: “These are the ones that kill people in CAPE Town.”
Others welcomed the visible policing.
Bonakele Vuthuza wrote: “It’s about time it seems like we are working now,” while urging people to abandon illegal guns before tragedy strikes.
A more sceptical voice came from Ekpema Daniel, who asked: “How come crime is increasing after the criminal foreigners left? I thought crime left with the criminals?”
Police have not released further details on the suspects or the specific charges beyond illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. The cases are expected to be enrolled in court in due course.
CCN will continue to follow developments as communities across Cape Town weigh the impact of these high-visibility operations.
