The South African Police Service (SAPS) Nyanga Sub-District, in partnership with the SAPS Forensic Science Laboratory Ballistics Unit and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) through its Community Prosecution Initiative, hosted a comprehensive firearms training work session at SAPS Browns Farm in Cape Town.
The session brought together members of the South African Police Service, forensic expert, and prosecutors to strengthen investigative and prosecutorial capacity in firearm-related cases, a critical priority in communities facing high levels of gun violence.
The training focused on several key aspects of firearm crime investigation and evidence handling, including:
• Crime scene investigation and reconstruction
• Individualisation of firearms through fired cartridge cases and bullets (with or without the firearm present)
• Gunshot wound analysis and external ballistics
• Physical matches, toolmarks and intermediate ballistics
• Correct collection, packaging and preservation of firearms, ammunition, and exhibits
• Ammunition identification and use of the Integrated Ballistics Identification System (IBIS)
Warrant Officer Le Fleur from the Cape Town Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC), highlighted the critical importance of properly handling exhibits at crime scenes to ensure that suspects can be accurately linked to the crimes committed.
This specialised knowledge ensures that evidence is handled meticulously from the moment it is recovered, right through to its presentation in court, minimising errors that can weaken cases or result in acquittals.
Advocate Gregory Niemand from the NPA highlighted the crucial role that accurate, well-written statements by SAPS members play in firearm-related prosecutions. Even the most advanced forensic analysis is of limited value if it is not supported by clear documentation.
Nyanga Sub-District Commander, Brigadier Lindiwe Dyantyi, noted that SAPS members recover various firearms in the area, but emphasised that SAPS must go further by identifying the sources and supply networks that funnel these weapons into communities.
Today’s work session at SAPS Browns Farm, marks an important step forward for firearm investigations in the Western Cape. By strengthening forensic capabilities and fostering collaboration between SAPS and the NPA, this initiative is laying the groundwork for stronger cases, improved conviction rates, and ultimately, safer communities.
#PartnershipPolicing
A comprehensive firearms training work session was held at SAPS Browns Farm in Cape Town.https://t.co/APOzLJn4AI#ArriveAlive #Training #Firearms @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/ApAa8Cv1yy
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) September 18, 2025
