Case against alleged Athlone Court shooter postponed

One of the suspects arrested during a recent Anti-Gang Unit operation will return to next court next week.

Rameez Jacobs (38), appeared in the Athlone Magistrates’ Court on Monday. He is accused of murder and attempted murder that were perpetrated outside the Athlone Court on 3 December.

SUPPLIED: SAPS


This court appearance follows a series of intelligence-driven operations aimed at identifying, tracing and arresting individuals linked to gang-related murders and attempted murders.

‘’SAPS will continue to dismantle gangs, confiscate illegal firearms and ensure that those who fuel violence are brought before the courts. These focused operations form part of a broader strategy to curb serious and violent crime and to reinforce visible policing in identified hotspot areas,’’ said Colonel Andrè Traut, Western Cape police spokesperson.

Jacobs will remain in custody until 5 January 2026 when he is expected to make his next court appearance.

SAPS said investigations remain ongoing, and has not ruled out additional arrests and charges

‘’SAPS urges communities to continue working with the police by providing information that may assist in the fight against gangsterism… The South African Police Service in the Western Cape reiterates its firm and unwavering stance against gangsterism and all forms of violent crime that threaten the safety and stability of communities on the Cape Flats,’’ said Traut.

The Acting Police Oversight and Community Safety MEC in the Weste, Tertuis Simmers, said these arrests sends an important message that gang-related violence will not be tolerated.

“The brazen attacks that occurred in and around the Athlone Magistrate’s Court represent a direct challenge to the authority of the State and a complete disregard for human life. It is critical that SAPS and the NPA act swiftly against all gang groupings.

He reiterated his concern over the high prevalence of gang related shootings and killings over the past few months: “While I welcome these arrests as a positive step, we now urgently require watertight dockets to be presented to court to ensure successful prosecutions in these gang related shootings and killings. Those who commit violent crimes must face the full might of the law. We will not allow criminal groupings to operate with impunity or with disregard for human life and the authority of the State,” said Simmers.

 

Done By: Shaneca Cupido

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