Western Cape Police Commissioner Thembisile Patekile has lauded the efforts of SAPS members on the ground who have managed to arrest 67 suspects, wanted for murder or attempted murder, in just one week.

Between Sunday 15 June and Sunday 22 June, police officers also confiscated 24 firearms with a total of 371 rounds of ammunition, which includes an AK47 assault rifle and a shotgun.

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It forms part of efforts to fight gang violence, which is the biggest contributor to violent crime statistics in the province.

Recently, the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit has been bolstered by an additional 100 members to make inroads in some traditionally challenging areas.

Patekile says these crime prevention initiatives will continue as police clamp down on suspects who threaten the safety and security of communities.

The continued recovery of firearms is a result of proactive efforts, which include patrols, targeted operations and searches.

Patekile has also appealed to the public to work together with police to fight crime in their communities.

“Firearms are a weapon of choice that are used by most criminals to commit criminal offences. The police will build the momentum and will remain committed to creating a safe and secure environment for all people in the Western Cape.”

READ: WC Police refute City’s claims of low conviction rates for illegal firearms