Members of the South African National Defence Force have begun operations in Cape Town, working alongside police in a crackdown on gang activity in Mitchells Plain.
The joint operation has seen parts of the area locked down, with raids conducted at several properties identified as crime hotspots.
Two men have been arrested after being found in possession of heroin during the raids. Authorities say the operation forms part of a broader effort to combat gang-related crime in the region.
Chairperson of the Police Portfolio Committee Ian Cameron said the raids were based on intelligence and targeted known problem areas.
“What must be emphasised is that so far, from all indications, the raids have been intelligence-driven. All the addresses that have been visited are hugely problematic in the area,” Cameron said.
He added that, at this stage, there has been little to criticise regarding the execution of the raids, aside from broader concerns related to the overall deployment.