DA Campaign representative's son arrested for illegal firearm in Leonsdale raid

The son of a team member of DA Councillor Franchesca Walker has been arrested for the illegal possession of a firearm, after police carried out a raid at their home in Leonsdale on Sunday.

The male suspect, who is expected to make an appearance soon at the Goodwood Magistrate's Court, is the son of Marilyn “Tootie” Frieslaar, a representative for Walker’s campaign and part of her team.

Police spokesperson, Aneliswa Manyana, confirmed the search and arrest.

“Members searched a premises in Leonsdale and found and seized one firearm.

“A male suspect was arrested and will appear in the Goodwood Magistrate's Court on Tuesday, March, 11, for the illegal possession of a firearm," Manyana said.

Walker told the Cape Argus she was aware of the matter and that Frieslaar was a dedicated mother who raised her children alone following the death of her husband.

She said it was best for her to speak about the allegations.

“I note your concerns raised. I called Marilyn now I have known her for eight years,” said Walker.

"I only know her as Marilyn Frieslaar, a dedicated mother raising her kids alone after their father was killed.

"She has a set of twins and the one is challenged and attends a special school."

During an interview with the Cape Argus about the raid, Frieslaar said they were working with police in the investigation and admitted that her son was arrested, but that she was unhappy with the conduct of the police.

“The police searched the wendy house where my son is staying,” she said.

“We are staying at the back also, I also have a son who is a special needs child.

“The police asked where my son was and said they were going to profile him.

“We were not allowed inside when they did the search.

“I do not have a problem with police doing their work but we were not allowed inside when they did the search and found the firearm.

“The one police officer said the firearm was inside his bullet proof vest.

“How is that right, they are supposed to carry evidence in a bag or use a pen?”

“I have spoken with the councillor and the detective about my concerns.”

She said she challenged the rumours being spread that she was aware of which gang the firearm belongs to and that she and her family were not criminals.

The Cape Argus also approached DA Western Cape for comment but did not receive a response at the time of publication on Monday.

Cape Argus