A 34-year-old suspect has been arrested in Hanover Park on Tuesday for the illegal possession of a prohibited firearm and ammunition, following an operation by the Anti-Gang Unit.
According to police, the unit was deployed to Hanover Park to curb escalating violence among rival gangs. Initially operating without specific leads, officers conducted high-visibility patrols to gather on-the-ground intelligence. SAPS spokesperson Captain Frederick van Wyk explained that this proactive approach quickly produced information identifying a key suspect and his residence.
“Probable cause for the search was established based on reliable intelligence linking a confirmed gang member to criminal activity at the specific location during a surge in gang violence,” Van Wyk said.
At around 23:25, members moved in on a residence in Moray Court, where the suspect was located and identified. A search of the premises uncovered a prohibited firearm that had been altered and made fully operational, along with nine rounds of 7.65 calibre ammunition.
The suspect was taken into custody and is expected to appear in the Athlone Magistrates Court once formally charged. Police say operations will continue as part of ongoing efforts to suppress gang-related crime in the area.
VOC News
Photo: Supplied
