Controversy Surrounds Release of Suspects and Missing Firearms in Western Cape
A dispute has erupted between Ian Cameron and the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Western Cape over the release of suspects allegedly linked to illegal firearms and questionable handling of evidence. The core issue revolves around discrepancies in the number of suspects and firearms initially reported versus what is officially documented.
Discrepancies in Suspects and Weapons
Cameron raised concerns about inconsistencies in the official records, stating that the docket only listed six suspects, six rifles, and six pistols, while initial reports suggested eight suspects and eight pistols. He alleges that two suspects and two pistols are "missing from the paperwork," suggesting potential interference from "higher ups." He expressed alarm that all suspects, described internally as KZN hitmen en route to the Nyanga taxi rank, have been released.
- Questions arise about the authorization of the release and the whereabouts of the missing pistols.
- Concerns exist regarding the firearms' connection to security companies with rejected or lapsed PSIRA registrations.
- Cameron believes the situation points towards evidence tampering or firearms re-entering criminal networks.
SAPS Response and Rebuttal
The SAPS addressed the allegations via social media, clarifying that the following was confiscated in Bellville on September 22: six AK-47 rifles, eight 9mm pistols, and assorted ammunition. They confirmed the arrest of eight suspects lacking firearm permits. While acknowledging reports of unaccounted firearms, the SAPS reiterated that "all firearms are accounted for" and that different dockets were opened for firearm seizures based on the circumstances of discovery.
The SAPS further stated that the case was not placed on the court roll due to the prosecutor's instructions for further investigation. The firearms were sent for ballistic testing. The police also emphasized that possessing a firearm without a permit is a punishable offense.
Cameron's Unanswered Questions
Cameron remains unsatisfied with the SAPS's response. He questions why the suspects were released within 24 hours instead of being properly held for 48 hours and brought before the court. He questions whether their KwaZulu-Natal addresses were verified and if they were profiled for links to criminal syndicates. Cameron also notes that the initial report mentioned eight suspects, but now only seven are accounted for. He raises concerns about splitting a single raid into multiple dockets, suggesting this undermines evidence and raises suspicions of interference.
He highlights inconsistencies between the firearms listed and the documentation, claiming that serial numbers do not match the make and model of booked firearms. He also points out that only two Taurus 9mm pistols were lawfully licensed to Godfather Protection Services. Cameron questions why charges could not even be enrolled, given the seizure of six AK-47s and eight pistols. He ends stating that the SAPS has failed its own intelligence-led policing, stronger firearm control, and prosecution-driven investigation strategic plans.
Police Refuse Further Comment
When asked for comment following Cameron's response, Western Cape police spokesperson Col Andrè Traut stated that the South African Police Service stands by its previously issued communications and will not provide any further comment on the matter at this stage.
