Seven arrested after cops stop possible gun attack plot outside Wynberg Court

A joint operation between the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the City of Cape Town’s law enforcement officials has prevented a possible suspected gang-related attack outside the Wynberg Magistrate's Court, leading to the arrest of seven suspects and the seizure of illegal firearms and ammunition.

Integrated police teams acted on intelligence indicating that an attack was being planned in the vicinity of the court. Officers moved swiftly and descended on an identified vehicle parked outside the Wynberg court precinct, where three illegal firearms and approximately 60 rounds of ammunition were seized. Seven suspects, aged between 18 and 64, were arrested at the scene.

“All the suspects were apprehended before any harm could be caused, and the illegal firearms were taken off the streets,” said SAPS Western Cape spokesperson Brigadier Novela Potelwa. “This proactive operational response saved lives in what was meant to be another gang-related shooting.”

The arrests come amid persistent concerns about security at the Wynberg Magistrates’ Court, which has been the site of several serious incidents this year. On 8 April 2025, Dingalomoyo Chintso, 49, was shot dead inside the court corridors while waiting to be called to appear in his murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm case.

The brazen killing sent shockwaves through the justice system and raised alarm over the safety of court users, staff and law enforcement officials.

In the aftermath of Chintso’s death, reports emerged of non-functional metal detectors and CCTV cameras at the court, intensifying scrutiny over existing security measures. The April shooting prompted increased security at the court, the replacement of faulty equipment and the implementation of threat and risk assessments aimed at preventing further violence.

Despite these interventions, concerns have persisted. In December 2025, a bomb threat resulted in the immediate evacuation and temporary closure of the Wynberg Magistrates’ Court, once again highlighting the vulnerability of the busy judicial facility and the ongoing risks associated with gang-related violence spilling into spaces meant to uphold the rule of law.

Western Cape SAPS management has commended the coordinated efforts of SAPS members and City of Cape Town law enforcement officials involved in the latest operation, reiterating the importance of intelligence-led, proactive policing in preventing violent crime before it occurs.

All seven arrested suspects are expected to appear in court on Wednesday, 17 December, where they will face charges relating to the possession of illegal firearms and ammunition.