SAPS and NPA collaborate on firearms training to combat gun violence in Nyanga

In a bid to combat the dire issue of gun violence in the province, the Nyanga Sub-District of the South African Police Service (SAPS) collaborated with the Forensic Science Laboratory's Ballistics Unit and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) hosted a comprehensive firearms training workshop in Browns Farm.

This area has become notorious for a high rate of hijackings linked to Marketplace scams, making the need for such training all the more urgent.

The session brought together members of the South African Police Service, forensic experts, and prosecutors to strengthen investigative and prosecutorial capacity in firearm-related cases, a critical priority in communities facing high levels of gun violence.

The training focused on several key aspects of firearm crime investigation and evidence handling, including: Crime scene investigation and reconstruction, individualisation of firearms through fired cartridge cases and bullets (with or without the firearm present), gunshot wound analysis and external ballistics, physical matches, tool marks and intermediate ballistics, correct collection, packaging and preservation of firearms, ammunition, and exhibits and ammunition identification and use of the Integrated Ballistics Identification System (IBIS).

Warrant Officer Le Fleur from the Cape Town Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC), highlighted the critical importance of properly handling exhibits at crime scenes to ensure that suspects can be accurately linked to the crimes committed.

“This specialised knowledge ensures that evidence is handled meticulously from the moment it is recovered, right through to its presentation in court, minimising errors that can weaken cases or result in acquittals,” said the saps.

Advocate Gregory Niemand from the NPA highlighted the crucial role that accurate, well-written statements by SAPS members play in firearm-related prosecutions. Even the most advanced forensic analysis is of limited value if it is not supported by clear documentation.

Nyanga Sub-District Commander, Brigadier Lindiwe Dyantyi, noted that SAPS members recover various firearms in the area, but emphasised that SAPS must go further by identifying the sources and supply networks that funnel these weapons into communities.

“Today’s work session at SAPS Browns Farm, marks an important step forward for firearm investigations in the Western Cape. By strengthening forensic capabilities and fostering collaboration between SAPS and the NPA, this initiative is laying the groundwork for stronger cases, improved conviction rates, and ultimately, safer communities,” Saps said.

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