LEAP response strengthened in Hanover Park as gang shootings spike
Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, says additional LEAP Reaction Unit resources have been deployed in Hanover Park following a recent increase in gang-related shootings in the area.
The additional deployment is aimed at strengthening visible policing and supporting efforts to stabilise the area, with LEAP officers working alongside members of the South African Police Service Anti-Gang Unit to disrupt gang activity and prevent further shootings.
Minister Marais said, “We cannot allow gang groupings to dictate the lives of law-abiding residents in Hanover Park. We are responding by strengthening the enforcement presence on the ground.”
Minister Marais said the removal of illegal firearms remains a critical part of this response.
“Gangs cannot continue shooting at one another if we take the firearms out of their hands. We have seen repeatedly that information from communities can lead directly to the confiscation of illegal firearms and the arrest of suspects. This is why community cooperation is so important,” Minister Marais said.
“I call on residents with information about gang activity, illegal firearms or planned shootings to share that information with law enforcement. I understand the fear that exists in communities where gang violence is taking place. Residents must not put themselves at risk by confronting criminals. Instead, please provide information through the appropriate channels so that law enforcement can act,” Minister Marais concluded.
Residents can report information anonymously through:
- SAPS Crime Stop: 08600 10111
- MySAPS Mobile Applications: Residents can submit anonymous crime tip-offs through the app.
- City of Cape Town anonymous tip-off line: 0800 1100 77
Media Enquiries:
Kurt Nefdt
Acting MLO to Minister Anroux Marais
0842851975