One of the suspects arrested during a recent Anti-Gang Unit
operation will return to next court next week.
Rameez Jacobs (38), appeared in the Athlone Magistrates’
Court on Monday. He is accused of murder and attempted murder that were
perpetrated outside the Athlone Court on 3 December.
This court appearance follows a series of
intelligence-driven operations aimed at identifying, tracing and arresting
individuals linked to gang-related murders and attempted murders.
‘’SAPS will continue to dismantle gangs, confiscate illegal
firearms and ensure that those who fuel violence are brought before the courts.
These focused operations form part of a broader strategy to curb serious and
violent crime and to reinforce visible policing in identified hotspot areas,’’
said Colonel Andrè Traut, Western Cape police spokesperson.
Jacobs will remain in custody until 5 January 2026 when he
is expected to make his next court appearance.
SAPS said investigations remain ongoing, and has not ruled
out additional arrests and charges
‘’SAPS urges communities to continue working with the
police by providing information that may assist in the fight against
gangsterism… The South African Police Service in the Western Cape reiterates
its firm and unwavering stance against gangsterism and all forms of violent
crime that threaten the safety and stability of communities on the Cape Flats,’’
said Traut.
The Acting Police Oversight and Community Safety MEC in the
Weste, Tertuis Simmers, said these arrests sends an important message that
gang-related violence will not be tolerated.
“The brazen attacks that occurred in and around the Athlone
Magistrate’s Court represent a direct challenge to the authority of the State
and a complete disregard for human life. It is critical that SAPS and the NPA
act swiftly against all gang groupings.
He reiterated his concern over the high prevalence of gang
related shootings and killings over the past few months: “While I welcome these
arrests as a positive step, we now urgently require watertight dockets to be
presented to court to ensure successful prosecutions in these gang related
shootings and killings. Those who commit violent crimes must face the full
might of the law. We will not allow criminal groupings to operate with impunity
or with disregard for human life and the authority of the State,” said Simmers.
Done By: Shaneca Cupido