CAPE TOWN – Three members of the Yuru Cats gang was charged with attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition and possession of prohibited firearms in Ottery on Thursday.
Police spokesperson, Captain Frederick van Wyk, said just before 1pm, members attached to Lansdowne SAPS were on patrol near a shopping mall in Ottery when they heard gunshots.
“(They) were alerted by members of the public who pointed out the three shooters. On the scene, members establish that the suspects shot a 32-year-old male affiliated with a rival gang (Mongrel gang). He was shot once in the back, and was transported by private vehicle to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
“The members pursued the three suspects and cornered them in Edward Road, Ottery. Grassy Park Crime Prevention Unit assisted the Lansdowne members. One suspect found to be in possession of a bag jumped up and fled the scene. Members gave chase and soon thereafter he was arrested.
“It was then discovered the bag which was still in his possession contained three firearms, a Z88, 9mm pistol, one Norinco 9mm pistol and a Star 9mm pistol, of which all serial numbers were removed, (as well as) 21 rounds of ammunition. The other two suspects were restrained on the scene,” he said.
Van Wyk confirmed that the incident was gang-related and the suspects were due to appear in the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
Ward councillor William Akim said: “Safety and security start with us and we as the community must not be afraid to report offenders. This shows that crime does not pay.
“We must support all the effort SAPS, law enforcement and metro police are doing in bringing crime and gang shooting down. Well done to all departments for catching the suspects”
Activist Roegshanda Pascoe said the big question was where did they get the unlicensed guns?
“It really shows again that it is accessible to the gangs. This is always a great concern. Are we asking the correct questions in the court of law? They are going to be punished to be sent out very soon again in the communities. What is going to happen with the ammunition that is unlicensed? How long will it take to resurface in the community again or is it being melted away?” she said.
Weekend Argus