In yet another example of bystanders running interference, Metro Police officers were stoned by hostile community members in Athlone this weekend, while arresting a suspect in a shooting incident. Statistics already point to an increase on Metro Police officers in this financial year.
At approximately 10:59 on Sunday, 12 April 2026, Metro Police officers were dispatched to The Vlei informal settlement in Athlone following reports of gunfire.
Upon arrival, officers identified a suspect holding a firearm. He tried to run away, but was quickly apprehended and relieved of the 9mm Ruger pistol in his possession, along with 18 rounds of ammunition.
While effecting the arrest, some members of the community became hostile and began throwing stones at police vehicles, resulting in damage to two City vehicles.
‘Despite their best efforts to run interference, officers were able to contain the situation and transport the suspect to the police station. On the downside, the damaged patrol vehicles will have to be off the road while repairs are completed, which is not only an unnecessary cost, but two fewer vehicles for visible patrols and responding to complaints. We are thankful that no staff members were injured, but these actions must be condemned in the strongest terms. It can’t be that we cry out for safer communities and then behave in this manner towards the very people who are trying to help. Attacks on our staff have become so commonplace, and just a cursory look at Metro Police incidents already point to an increase in this financial year,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.
Between July 2024 and January 2025, the Metro Police Department recorded 43 attacks on staff. For the same period between 2025 and 2026, the number has increased to 52.
In general enforcement efforts over the past week, Metro Police Officers made 140 arrests, issued 6 061 traffic and by-law fines and confiscated three firearms, an imitation firearm and 44 rounds of ammunition.
Law Enforcement officers made 277 arrests and issued 11 239 notices for by-law and traffic transgressions.
In the early hours of Sunday, LEAP officers recovered a firearm and an empty magazine during stop and search operations in Philippi East. A 51-year-old suspect was arrested.
On the roads, Traffic Officers arrested 38 suspects – 28 for driving under the influence of alcohol, three for reckless and negligent driving and seven on various other charges.
They also recorded 52 109 offences, impounded 160 public transport vehicles and executed 1 231 warrants of arrest.
The Public Emergency Communication Centre recorded 1 453 calls for assistance – 511 were medical assistance and 384 were by-law related.
Emergency call-takers also dispatched assistance to 68 incidents assault, 41 domestic violence calls, 21 shooting incidents and 37 motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents.
To report any emergency incident, call the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700.
