In a Facebook post, JP Smith, who says he often receives hundreds of messages within a single day, said, ‘Tip-offs are invaluable in the fight against crime’ as one particular message led to the arrest of a 37-year-old male in Manenberg over the long weekend.
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According to Smith, he received a message from an unknown number earlier this weekend, advising of an illegal firearm being kept on premises in Manenberg, an area largely under the control of the Hard Livings gang, and forwarded the information directly to the Metro Police.
Police members proceeded to the premises, and the suspect was arrested for possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Despite members of the local community gathering outside the premises in a ‘riotous’ manner shortly after, police withdrew with the arrested suspect, who is now being detained at Manenberg SAPS.
‘I was fortunate to have picked this up in time that it could be actioned,’ comments Smith.
‘While visible policing does eventually bring results, a far greater outcome is achieved by such reliable information.’
The City of Cape Town offers a reward for information that leads to the confiscation of drugs, firearms or an arrest. However, it is understandable that, at times, some informants may wish to remain anonymous and forego the receipt of a reward.
Tip-offs can be made 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in person or anonymously by calling the Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700.
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Picture: JP Smith / Facebook
