The Gauteng Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) continues its determined campaign against gang-related violence, working to enhance public safety in some of the province’s most affected communities. Over the course of five months, from January to May 2025, AGU’s visible policing operations have resulted in the arrest of 137 individuals for a range of serious crimes, including murder, attempted murder, drug possession, and the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
Among these arrests, 13 suspects were apprehended for murder and 12 for attempted murder. A further 80 individuals were arrested for drug possession, while eight were caught in possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. Nine were detained for the unlawful possession of ammunition, and two for the illegal possession of firearms. These arrests demonstrate a clear resolve by the police to clamp down on criminal networks and bring perpetrators to justice.
During the same period, AGU detectives have initiated 11 new cases, taking 17 accused to court. The charges they face range from murder and attempted murder to illegal possession of firearms and drugs. Four of these cases have already been finalised, resulting in a combined sentence of 40 years handed down to four individuals.
Dalyn Davis received a 20-year prison sentence for murder and attempted murder, in a case originating in Sophiatown. Chadwin Louw was convicted on three counts of attempted murder and sentenced to three years for each count, with the sentence wholly suspended for three years. Keenen Michaels was sentenced to six years of direct imprisonment for possession of an unlicensed firearm, while Keyaan Billet received a 10-year sentence for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. All four cases stemmed from AGU investigations in the Sophiatown area.
In terms of proactive policing, the AGU has also achieved significant success in removing illegal items from circulation. Over the five-month period, officers seized 14 firearms and 161 rounds of ammunition. In addition, they recovered two stolen vehicles, 702 grams of dagga, 389 grams of methcathinone (commonly known as CAT), and 1,659 mandrax tablets. Other confiscated items include mobile phones, 153 grams of medicinal substances, knives, a bulletproof vest, a toy firearm, and substantial sums of cash—each seizure weakening the infrastructure of organised criminal operations.
Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, the Provincial Commissioner of Police in Gauteng, reiterated the province’s commitment to supporting precincts affected by gang violence, as well as the AGU itself, through sustained resource allocation and operational backing. He emphasised the SAPS’s unwavering determination to deliver justice and improve community safety. “We will continue to work tirelessly to combat crime and bring justice to victims, while actively engaging and working with the community to build a safer environment,” he stated.
Lt Gen Mthombeni also issued a firm warning to gang members, highlighting the recent conviction of 20-year-old Dylan Davis, who was sentenced to 20 years for murder and attempted murder. “This conviction should serve as a clear deterrent to any young person involved in gang violence and criminal activities. You are not untouchable. However long it takes, we will find you, and you will face the full might of the law.”
The post Gauteng Anti-Gang Unit intensifies crackdown on violent crime appeared first on ProtectionWeb.
The post Gauteng Anti-Gang Unit intensifies crackdown on violent crime appeared first on defenceWeb.
