Western-Cape: Increased police patrols in Mitchell’s Plain have led to the seizure of four firearms and a quantity of ammunition, as part of efforts to reduce gang violence in the area.

On July 7, members of the Mitchell’s Plain Crime Prevention Unit were patrolling Du Toitskloof Street in Tafelsig when they noticed a man acting suspiciously. At around 16:30, the man ran into a known drug outlet, apparently carrying a parcel believed to contain drugs.

Police followed the suspect into the house and carried out a search. Officers discovered four firearms, including three Glock 9mm pistols and one CZ pistol. Some of the firearms did not have serial numbers. Ammunition was also found, concealed in a transparent bag in the roof of the house.

A 28-year-old man was arrested and is facing charges related to the illegal possession of prohibited firearms and ammunition. He is expected to appear in the Mitchell’s Plain Magistrate’s Court once charged.

The operation forms part of ongoing efforts to stabilise gang-affected communities through visible policing and focused intervention. The seized weapons will undergo ballistic testing to establish whether it is linked to other crimes.

Police say similar operations will continue in areas identified as gang hotspots.