In a concerted effort to address the proliferation of serious and violent crime, members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng continue to recover unlicensed firearms and ammunition in circulation. Provincial Commissioner of Police in Gauteng, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela commended members across the province for the recent operational successes achieved
Police in Gauteng in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, Eyes, and Ears (E2) Initiative partners, Community Police Forums (CPF’s), and community patrollers collectively attributed to the recovery of over 400 unlicensed firearms and nearly 5000 rounds of ammunition over a period of four weeks (28 March to 18 April 2023). In addition, nearly 200 suspects were arrested for possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
These operational successes are the result of SAPS Gauteng’s unabated crime-fighting efforts such as the renowned multi-disciplinary ‘Operation O Kae Molao’, routine crime prevention patrols, random stop-and-searches, and vehicle checkpoints. Unlicensed firearms and ammunition are also recovered through community tip-offs.
“Firearms are known to be the weapon of choice in the commission of a serious and violent crime. I would like to thank all our SAPS members, other law enforcement agencies, and our crime-fighting partners for remaining resolute in the fight against crime. Let’s continue to recover unlicensed firearms and ammunition towards a safer and secure environment for all,” said Lt Gen Mawela.
All the recovered firearms will be subjected to a ballistic test to determine whether they can be linked to other serious crimes committed.
Community members are encouraged to continue reporting the crime to their nearest police station, SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or alternatively leave an anonymous tip-off on the MySAPS App.