The Steenberg Community Policing Forum (CPF) has condemned the stoning of police vehicles in Lavender Hill.
Gavin Walbrugh, CPF chair, said of the “deeply disappointing” incident, which occurred on Monday 2 October: “The Steenberg CPF vehemently condemns such reprehensible behaviour and urges community members to stand in solidarity with officers answering the call of duty.
“These officers work tirelessly to enhance safety and security in our area.”
He said the police’s Crime Prevention Unit faced hostility from Dover Court during an arrest operation, which resulted in officers being “assaulted with stones” and one sustaining injuries from a brick thrown.
“Our thoughts and best wishes go to the injured police member and we hope for a swift and complete recovery.
“The Steenberg CPF remains committed to fostering a collaborative and safe community environment and we call for unity in the face of challenges to build a safer Steenberg for all.”
The CPF has urged the community to support law enforcement and police officers who “dedicate themselves to maintaining peace and order.”
“Acts of violence against those committed to public safety only undermine the collective well-being of our community,” said Walbrugh.
Meanwhile, Metro police arrested two people for possession of unlicenced firearms and ammunition in separate incidents on Friday 6 October.
Metro Police spokesperson Ruth Solomons said one suspect was arrested for carrying an unlicensed firearm.
“At 14:30 Metro police officers arrested a suspect for possession of an unlicensed firearm and illegal possession of ammunition in the Lavender Hill area.
“Officers were on patrol on Urfield Road during an integrated operation with law enforcement to curb ongoing gang violence when they spotted a suspicious male person.
“They instructed him to stop, but he attempted to run and was quickly cornered and searched.”
Police confiscated a .38 special revolver fully loaded with five live rounds of ammunition and another eight extra live rounds found in the suspect’s pockets.
“The suspect, aged 22, was arrested and detained at Steenberg Police Station. The firearm serial number was still intact and traced back as the property of a resident in Athlone.”
