Two imitation guns were confiscated from three minors in Leonsdale on Monday afternoon, 15 January, as police believed them to be alleged gang informants.
Elsies River police spokesperson, Captain Daphne O’Reilly, says the imitation firearms have magazines and operate like a normal firearm.
“While Colonel Vuyisile Payi and Colonel Jacques de Bruin were doing patrols next to Majiet Stores in Norwood Road, they saw three boys aged between seven and 11 years in possession of these toy guys. The officials confiscated the guns,” explains O’Reilly.
Police suspect that the minors are used to assist gangsters in the area.
“The police believe these children are used by gangs as a lookout for when rival gangs are approaching,” adds O’Reilly.
These children were not arrested, but taken home to their parents.
“It’s so unfortunate that there is no guidance from some parents. When children have no role model, they become so vulnerable and start looking up to gangsters. These young children become inspired by them because they have a sense of belonging.
“Our parents need to play a huge part in their children’s lives and also be aware of what they are doing and getting themselves involved in,” says O’Reilly.
