Police efforts to track down suspects linked to violent crimes in the Western Cape have led to the arrest of a man wanted for murder in Delft earlier this month, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.
According to a media statement issued by Sergeant Wesley Twigg of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Western Cape, the operation was conducted by members of the Anti-Gang Unit and Delft SAPS, who acted on intelligence regarding the suspect’s whereabouts.
“Efforts to arrest suspects on the wrong side of the law yielded positive results when police members arrested a suspect wanted for a murder which occurred early this month in Delft,” said Sergeant Twigg.
The statement detailed that officers followed up on information about the suspect and managed to trace him along Delft Main Road. “The members traced the suspect in Delft Main Road and was followed until he stopped in Belhar,” Twigg added.
Upon his arrest, a subsequent investigation led to the recovery of a 9mm pistol loaded with six rounds of ammunition, as well as a homemade firearm. “The firearm will be sent for ballistic testing and further investigation,” the statement read.
Police believe the seized weapons could provide critical evidence in ongoing investigations into gang-related activities and violent crime in the area, though no further details were provided about the motive or identity of the victim in the earlier murder.
The suspect is expected to appear in the Bellville Magistrates’ Court once formal charges have been filed.
Sergeant Twigg said the successful arrest formed part of the SAPS’ ongoing efforts to curb serious crime in Delft and surrounding communities. “Efforts to arrest suspects on the wrong side of the law yielded positive results,” he reiterated.
The case remains under investigation.