Drugs and firearms are commonly associated with gangs or gang activity. In order to break this nexus, a multi-disciplinary approach must be adopted with all role-players working in concert to ensure the safety of the communities.
This weekend, the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) members closed in on drug peddlers and alleged gang members in the northern and neighboring areas. Several search warrants were executed at houses suspected to be drug dens. Three firearms were recovered – a 45mm Colt (ownership to be determined), 6,35 Astra pistol – stolen in Walmer in January 2019 and a 6.35 baby Browning reportedly stolen in Kuruman in June 2019. A sniper air rifle was also confiscated from a house in New Brighton. Tik (23), Tik bulbs (27), mandrax (835), dagga (136 packets), cash, and a scale with an estimated total value of R100 000 were seized. A total of five suspects were arrested for possession of drugs, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
The arrested suspects will appear in their respective Magistrates’ Courts today on their charges.
Acting Mount Road Cluster Commander, Brig Thandiswa Kupiso commended the AGU members for their persistence and tight grip on these criminals. ‘The participation in drug markets is known to have a link to guns and gangs are often implicated as a catalyst responsible for shooting incidents in these hotspot areas. The AGU members will remain vigilant in their resolve to rid the area of drugs, illegal firearms and gang activity,’ stated Brig Kupiso.
