Three suspects, aged between 23 and 30, were arrested in Site B, Khayelitsha, on Friday 10 April for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
Provincial police spokesperson Sgt Wesley Twigg said the arrests took place at approximately 02:00.
He said members of the Anti-Economic Crime Task Team and Counterfeit and Illicit Policing Team conducted a raid on premises linked to suspects believed to be extorting businesses in Site B.
Police seize guns and ammunition in Site B
“The members searched the premises and found two 9 mm pistols, along with a total of 90 rounds of ammunition, hidden in one of the houses.”
According to Twigg, the suspects were expected to appear in the Khayelitsha Magistrates’ Court once they had been formally charged.
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Community reaction to Khayelitsha gun arrests
A community leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, for fear of reprisals, praised the officers for their efforts, saying the arrests would serve as a lesson to other extortionists.
“What shocked me is that they are so young. That means there are people working behind the scenes, providing them with firearms and ammunition to do all the dirty work. We are not safe here, and you can’t trust anyone. Whoever informed the officers did a great job. Khayelitsha is becoming a red zone.”
The leader said Khayelitsha was under siege by extortionists and urged community members to work together with the police.
