The Western Cape Police have arrested three men linked to murder and attempted murder cases tied to gang-related shootings on the notorious Cape Flats, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The arrests were made during a series of coordinated operations by the Western Cape Anti-Gang Unit over the weekend, demonstrating a growing commitment to curbing the violence that has plagued communities.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Novela Potelwa revealed that detectives from the Anti-Gang Unit conducted targeted operations from Saturday evening into the early hours of Sunday morning. ‘Armed with warrants of arrest, they descended upon several areas, including Manenberg, Athlone, and Mitchell’s Plain, where they apprehended the suspects, aged 28, 36, and 38.’
The actions by law enforcement are part of a broader initiative to tackle issues related to gang activity, with a focus on addressing the violence and turmoil created by gang feuds.
The charges against the suspects include murder, attempted murder, possession of an illegal firearm, and violations of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA).
Notably, the ongoing investigations are linked to shooting incidents from as far back as 2017 and 2025, highlighting the long-standing nature of gang conflicts in the area.
The most recent shooting incident, which proved fatal, occurred outside the Athlone court on 3 December, where one individual was killed, while another sustained injuries in close proximity in Kew Town shortly thereafter.
With investigations progressing, police have indicated that further charges may be forthcoming as they continue to build their cases against the arrested individuals.
Potelwa emphasised that these operations are part of a comprehensive strategy by the SAPS to reinstate order in communities afflicted by gang violence within the City of Cape Town.
‘In collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, the SAPS is engaged in ongoing operations at identified hotspots where illegal firearms are prevalent, leading to numerous successful arrests and confiscations,’ she stated.
Just a week ago, the SAPS received a significant boost in their efforts with the deployment of approximately 450 additional constables who recently completed their basic training at SAPS academies.
This influx of personnel is expected to enhance ground-level operations, particularly in tracking down wanted suspects, as officials strive to tackle the deeply rooted issue of gang violence.
‘The tracing of wanted suspects forms part of our efforts to effectively address gang violence and its consequences,’ Potelwa concluded.
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join!
Also read:
Picture: Gallo Images / Frennie Shivambu
