Police in Cape Town seized over 30 firearms in September so far

The City of Cape Town has been cracking down on firearms, confiscating more than 30 weapons in the first three weeks of September.

Over the weekend they made eight arrests, seizing seven firearms in the process.

One of the suspects arrested was just 14 years old.

The minor was arrested on Saturday, 20 September when Metro Police officers patrolling Hanover Park spotted him openly displaying an object.

On closer investigation they found it was a prohibited firearm loaded with a round of ammunition.

Officers also arrested two suspects, confiscating two firearms in Hanover Park, and two suspects in Athlone, confiscating one firearm on Friday 19 September.

On Sunday three additional suspects were apprehended in separate arrests for firearm related offences.

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In addition to these, since 1 September, Metro Police officers confiscated 17 firearms, two imitation firearms, a zip gun and 121 rounds of ammunition.

“That was only the first three weeks of September. Each firearm confiscated is potentially a life saved, and a crime stopped before it could be executed. This is cold comfort for communities plagued by gun violence. Our officers keep taking these guns off the street, but the seemingly endless supply of weapons and ammunition to criminals, gangs and even children bears further scrutiny.”

- Alderman JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security

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