The South African Police Service in Gauteng remains determined in recovering unlicensed firearms and ammunition across the province. Firearms are known to be the weapon of choice in the commission of serious and violent crimes. According to Section 3 of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000 clearly indicates that “No person may possess a firearm unless he or she holds a license, permit or authorisation issued in terms of this Act for that firearm.
SAPS Gauteng in partnership with other law enforcement agencies, Business Against Crime South Africa’s Eye and Ears (E2) initiative partners and other relevant stakeholders have collectively attributed to the recovery of 110 unlicensed firearms and nearly 800 rounds of ammunition over a period of a week (01 April to 09 April 2024), in addition 57 suspects were arrested for possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition across the province.
This is a result of SAPS Gauteng’s multi-disciplinary crime fighting efforts that include Operation Shanela, routine crime prevention patrols, random stop and searches and vehicle checkpoints. Unlicensed firearms and ammunition are also recovered through community tip-offs.
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Gauteng, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, thanked all the concerted efforts of our members and crime fighting partners and further mentioned that members of the community can rest assured that SAPS in Gauteng will continue to strive towards creating a safe and secure environment for all its citizens and visitors.
All the recovered firearms will be subjected to ballistic test to determine whether it can be linked to other serious crimes committed.
Community members are urged to report crime to their nearest police station, SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or alternatively leave an anonymous tip-off on MySAPS App.
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