Seizes Firearm and Cash
Cape Town:- A 19-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday in Charlie Street, Eastridge, Mitchell’s Plain, after the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) Anti-Gang Unit uncovered an unlicensed 9mm pistol, 20 rounds of ammunition, and a stash of cash during a targeted operation.
The early-morning raid was part of an intensified crime prevention initiative to combat the recent surge in gang-related shootings in the Mitchell’s Plain area. Police confirmed the arrest was the result of an intelligence-driven operation aimed at dismantling armed gang activity and curbing illegal firearms circulation.
“The community has suffered enough. These operations are designed to send a clear message that we will not tolerate gang law,” said SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Lerato Mokoena. “We are working with community tip-offs to ensure that those who endanger lives are brought to justice.”
Local residents have welcomed the arrests but remain cautious.
“We are thankful that the police are finally acting on information. But we need to see more consistent action,” said Pastor Jerome Cupido, a local community leader and youth mentor. “One arrest is not enough, we want our children to feel safe again when walking to school.”
Another resident and activist, Lucinda Abrahams, who lost her nephew in a gang crossfire last year, said: “This is a step in the right direction. We plead with law enforcement to continue putting pressure on gangs who have held our community hostage for too long.”
Authorities have not disclosed the total amount of cash seized and confirmed that the suspect will appear in court soon on charges related to the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The SAPS has urged anyone with information on gang activities to contact Crime Stop anonymously at 08600 10111.
“The people of Mitchell’s Plain are resilient,” said Ward Councillor Fazlin Petersen. “We will rise above the violence, but it requires a united front from both law enforcement and our community.”
