LEAP arrests close to 1 000 suspects, in June, for various crimes

The Western Cape’s Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP) officers arrested close to 1 000 suspects, in June, for various offences. Officers also confiscated 18 firearms in the Cape’s crime hotspot areas.

LEAP officers work alongside other law enforcement agencies, such as City of Cape Town, Metro police and SAPS. Officers are deployed in crime hotspot areas in the metro, including, Delft, Gugulethu, Harare, Khayelitsha, Mitchell’s Plain, amongst others.

Of the 994 suspects arrested, majority were for being in possession of drugs, followed by dangerous weapons, and dealing in drugs

Western Cape’s Police Oversight and Community Safety MEC, Reagen Allen, particularly welcomed the confiscation of firearms. Allen said firearms are the leading weapon being used to commit murders.

‘’These confiscations and arrests are hugely significant, especially since firearms are the leading weapon being used to commit murders. Since inception to 2 July 2023, LEAP officers have confiscated 381 firearms. I thank our LEAP officers who on a daily basis go into dangerous areas to make it safer.’’

“All of us have a role to play in assisting our LEAP officers. This can be done in various ways, including providing information about the whereabouts of illegal firearms, potential crimes that are being planned, along with where the hideouts of suspects and criminals are. Most importantly, I urge our communities to not be a hindrance to any law enforcement officer, including SAPS when they need to execute their duties. If we are serious about eradicating crime, then we need to work together,” added Reagen Allen, Western Cape police Oversight & Community Safety MEC.

 

PICTURE: MEC Allen at Bush Radio

Done By: Esona Mfazwe