The Western Cape SAPS has noted with concern recent claims suggesting an unacceptably low conviction rate, reported at just 5% for the illegal possession of unlicensed or prohibited firearms. These figures have been linked to the 1,670 firearms confiscated by the City’s law enforcement from January 2021 to date and are unfortunately misleading.
Firearm-related crime remains a top priority for SAPS in the Western Cape, where firearms are frequently used to commit serious and violent offences. In response, SAPS members are relentlessly pursuing armed criminals, aiming not only to remove illegal firearms from our communities but also to ensure the successful prosecution of those found in possession of them.
Contrary to the inaccurate figures being circulated, an analysis of our conviction record paints a far more accurate and encouraging picture. Our detectives have consistently achieved strong conviction rates:
2021/2022 financial year: 86% conviction rate for illegal possession of firearms
2022/2023 financial year: 86% conviction rate for illegal possession of firearms
2023/2024 : financial year: 89% conviction rate for illegal possession of firearms
These results reflect the dedicated efforts of the investigators, prosecutors, and the broader criminal justice system to hold offenders accountable and enhance public safety and are the rates for all firearms confiscated by SAPS and other law enforcement agencies.
Our mission remains to foster safer communities across the Western Cape. Misinformation, especially when it undermines public confidence in policing and the justice system, can generate unwarranted fear and mistrust. It is therefore essential that accurate and verified data be shared responsibly to support, rather than hinder, our collective efforts in fighting crime.