PARKTOWN – The Management of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng has noted the video in circulation of a man carrying what seems like a firearm pointing it to two police officials. It has to be put into perspective that the man in question is a well-known homeless person who is also mentally disturbed.

On 13 November 2022, the man was seen by the two female police officers passing in front of the police station in Carletonville carrying a firearm. Upon approaching him, the members realised that it is a toy gun of which they tried to disarm him as it may appear to others as a real firearm. Another officer came to assist them and the toy gun was seized. The man is currently in hospital for observation.

The community is urged to refrain from circulating videos on unconfirmed reports which mislead the public.

The public is further encouraged to take part in the fight against crime through reporting any criminal activities at the nearest police station, Crime Stop Line on 08600 10111 or leave anonymous tip-offs on the MySAPS App which can be downloaded onto any smart phone. All information received will be treated with confidence.

Source: South African Police Service