Multiple firearms confiscated in clampdown on illegal firearms and ammunition

Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, has congratulated South African Police Service (SAPS) and Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP) Officers for confiscating multiple firearms in recent weeks.

Over the past three weeks, more than eighteen illegal firearms were taken off the streets of Cape Town in communities severely affected by ongoing gang-related violence.
Notably, officers recovered a rifle near the scene of a recent mass murder in Gugulethu. Further firearm confiscations took place in areas such as Philippi East, Crossroads and Hanover Park with nine firearms being confiscated in Mitchells Plain in less than three days. Ongoing intensified operations in Mitchells Plain also led to the SAPS Anti-Gang Unit confiscating two more firearms along with ammunition on Thursday 10 July 2025.

These coordinated efforts underscore the continued commitment of law enforcement agencies to work together in curbing gun violence.

Minister Marais said, “These successes are not only a testament to the dedication and bravery of our men and women in blue, but they help in making communities safer. Every firearm taken off the streets is potentially a life saved.”

Most of the recent firearm confiscations in the Mitchells Plain area can be attributed to information received from residents. 

“I applaud the bravery of these residents who are taking a stand against criminals. I urge communities to continue supporting law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious activities and illegal firearm possession. It is only through collaboration that we will be able to rid our communities of crime,” she concluded.
 

Media Enquiries:
Kurt Nefdt, Acting MLO to Minister Anroux Marais
Cell: 084 285 1975
Email: Kurt.Nefdt@westerncape.gov.za