Seven suspects have been arrested near the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court in Cape Town after police intercepted a minibus taxi believed to be linked to a planned hit targeting a court witness.
Earlier in the day, information circulating on multiple social media platforms alerted authorities to a suspicious Toyota Quantum allegedly en route to Wynberg with the intention of shooting a witness due to appear in court.
Monitor the area
In response, the Wynberg Central Business District (CBD) Operational Team was immediately mobilised to conduct patrols and monitor the area surrounding the court precinct.
During the operation, officers identified a Quantum parked in Church Street with seven occupants inside.
Members approached the vehicle using tactical procedures and instructed all occupants to exit.
A subsequent search led to the discovery of three prohibited firearms, ammunition, dangerous weapons, cellphones and narcotics.
Links to known gangs
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects may have links to known gangs and could be connected to previous shooting incidents in the area.
The suspects, who are residents of Vrygrond, Seawinds, Retreat, Westlake, Mfuleni and Tafelsig, were arrested and handed over to Wynberg SAPS for further investigation.
Police have praised the swift response by officers, noting that the intervention may have prevented a serious and potentially deadly incident at the court.
Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects are expected to appear in court soon.
