Over 80 000 guns were destroyed in the Vaal in southern Gauteng on Friday.

It was part of a police campaign to keep firearms away from criminals and irresponsible gun owners.

Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa, Police Commissioner Bheki Cele and Provincial Commissioner Perumal Naidoo gathered for the event.

Organisations including Gun Free South Africa and Business against Crime were also represented to express their solidarity with police.

Cele told officers to respond aggressively to thugs, pointing at the confiscated rifles and high caliber pistols to emphasize the necessity of the deadly force policy.