WESTERN CAPE – Police officers in the Garden Route District of Western Cape have arrested two individuals in separate incidents for possessing unlicensed firearms, as part of their ongoing efforts to combat serious and violent crimes linked to firearms and drugs.

According to South African Police Service, On Sunday, November 26, 2023, around 01:40, Thembalethu police were patrolling crime hotspot areas when they spotted a man acting suspiciously. Upon conducting a search, the officers found an unlicensed firearm in his possession and promptly arrested him. The firearm was seized as part of the operation.

Later that day, at approximately 10:45, police officers in Kwanokuthula, Plettenberg Bay, responded to a tip-off about illegal activities at a residence on Sishuba Street. During their search of a shack behind the main house, they discovered eight rounds of ammunition, a firearm, and small quantities of tik and mandrax tablets. Both the male (33) and female (21) occupants of the shack were arrested for illegal possession of the firearm, ammunition, and drugs.

The arrested individuals are currently being held in police custody and are awaiting their court appearances in Thembalethu and Plettenberg Bay Magistrates’ Courts, respectively.

The police management in Western Cape has commended the officers for their quick actions and vigilance in removing unlicensed firearms from the streets, thereby contributing to the safety and security of the community.