Cape Town - Three firearms, including an imitation one, have been removed from shooting hotspots in Hanover Park, thanks to eagle-eyed police, Law Enforcement officers and neighbourhood teams.
In one of the incidents, the suspect turned the firearm on police.
Police hit the streets on October 10 to clamp down on streets where shootings have been rampant in recent months.
At the first address in Athry Walk, police arrested a 26-year-old man who they found to be suspicious.
He was found to be in possession of a 9mm pistol which was discovered hidden inside the house.
Police later discovered the firearm had been reported stolen earlier this year in Blue Downs.
Philippi police spokesperson, Captain Lance Goliath said the investigation was ongoing into the case.
“Police arrested the male for the illegal possession of a firearm.
“Once charged the suspect will make his appearance in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on charges relating to the Firearms Act.
On the same day, just before 11am, police arrested a 20-year-old man who was in possession of an imitation firearm.
“The suspect is due to make a court appearance in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on charges relating to the Firearms Act.” added Goliath.
During further operations, police said they managed to arrest a suspect who turned his firearm on them.
‘Members of SAPS Flying Squad Maitland arrested a 26-year-old male after he pointed a firearm at them,” Goliath said.
Police confiscated a 9mm pistol which had its serial number filed off.
“The suspect has subsequently made his court appearance on charges relating to the Firearms Act,” he said.
A week prior to the operation, two firearms were also seized in Selica Walk.
Philippi police station spearheaded a fully fledged Crime Prevention Operation and Crime Awareness campaign in identified Hotspot areas, Golaith explained.
These forces included SAPS, Law Enforcement agencies, Community Police Forum, Community in Blue and Neighbourhood Watch members who distributed 300 pamphlets with information on substance abuse, domestic violence, gangs, gender-based violence, drug abuse and community safety.
“Several suspects between ages 18 and 28-years-old were arrested for the possession of dangerous weapons when police found them in possession of knives,” he said.
Philippi SAPS station commander, Colonel Adriaan Saulse commended the members, Community Police Forum and the community involved on a job well done.
“Police will continue putting pressure on criminals and their criminal activities in order to eradicate crime,” said Saulse.
“The community is urged to continue to come forward with information pertaining to illegal firearms, drugs and criminals, as well as criminal activities,” he said.
Anyone with information can contact the Philippi police on 021 6901505.
Information can also be shared on Crime Stop at 086001011 or via the MySAPS App.