Members of the provincial Anti-Gang Unit have taken another step in curbing the spread of firearms in Cape Town’s communities, after a late-night operation in Parkwood led to the arrest of a 30-year-old man.
The arrest occurred on Thursday evening, 25 September, after police received intelligence about the possible presence of illegal weapons at a residence in Parker’s Walk. Acting on the information, officers carried out a search at the specified house.
Provincial police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed the details of the discovery.
“The members found a .38 special revolver with six rounds of ammunition without a serial number hidden in a bag. Upon further search of the house, the members found another firearm, a 9mm pistol without a serial number, hidden under a mattress in the room,”
he said.
The lack of serial numbers, according to police, is a clear indication that the firearms are unlicensed and likely intended for unlawful activity. Firearms of this kind are difficult to trace, complicating police investigations into gang-related violence and organised crime.
Sergeant Twigg explained that the operation was part of the Anti-Gang Unit’s ongoing drive to remove dangerous weapons from circulation in high-risk areas.
“The members found a .38 special revolver with six rounds of ammunition without a serial number hidden in a bag. Upon further search of the house, the members found another firearm, a 9mm pistol without a serial number, hidden under a mattress in the room,”
he said, reiterating the seriousness of the find.
The suspect was detained immediately and charged with the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. He is expected to appear in the Wynberg Magistrates’ Court in the coming days.
While the police have confirmed the arrest, no further details about the suspect’s possible links to local gangs or syndicates have yet been released. Investigations are ongoing and authorities are expected to determine whether the seized weapons have been used in other crimes.
This latest arrest highlights the continuing challenge on the Cape Flats faced by law enforcement in communities where gun violence is prevalent. The Anti-Gang Unit, established to disrupt organised criminal networks, continues to carry out targeted raids and operations across the province. Residents in affected neighbourhoods often express concern about the level of violence in their areas, and each successful confiscation of illegal firearms provides some measure of relief.
The case serves as a reminder of how firearms, hidden in ordinary homes, contribute to a cycle of crime and insecurity. The upcoming court appearance will be closely watched as communities seek accountability and stronger measures to reduce the flow of illegal weapons.
