Suspects arrested, guns seized

NINE illegal firearms were seized and several suspects arrested in Cape Town by police during an ongoing crime-prevention operation aimed at ridding the city of illegal weapons and crime syndicates.

In a statement, police said officers, acting on tip-offs, had seized several firearms and ammunition, and had arrested dangerous suspects at the weekend.

In Elsies River, police apprehended a 28-year-old man in Avonwood yesterday morning. He was allegedly in possession of an illegal 9mm Arcus pistol, which had no serial number, as well as ammunition and a pair of gloves. The suspect, who was believed to have close links with gangs, was expected to appear in court soon.

Police spokesperson Novela Potelwa said: “In Kraaifontein, police responding to an earlier shooting incident in Scottsdene, and arrested a 21-year-old who was allegedly in possession of a home-made gun and ammunition, in Klipbok Street on Saturday evening.”

Meanwhile, police in Philippi East are seeking the assistance of the public to help them trace 25-year-old Phumlani Maxhawulana, who is wanted in connection with a murder that was committed on December 16, 2018, at the Better Life informal settlement.

Police spokesperson FC van Wyk said: “A warrant for Maxhawulana’s arrest has been issued, and police are calling on residents from the community to assist them in locating the suspect.

“It is suspected that he could be in the Better Life, Philippi East and Nyanga areas. We urge anyone who can assist in finding the suspect to kindly contact the investigating officer, Captain Janse van Rensburg, at 079 696 8211 or the Philippi East SAPS at 021 370 1900/04, or alternatively Crime Stop at 08600 10111.”