Four suspects have been arrested for the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition following an intelligence-driven operation by police members in Elukwatini.
According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Captain Mpho Nonyane-Mpe, the arrests took place during the early hours of Thursday, August 27, at approximately 04:00, after off-duty Crime Prevention members received information about a taxi allegedly transporting firearms.
“The members immediately placed themselves on duty and were provided with a vehicle for tracing the suspected taxi, thanks to the Vispol Commander. The information was followed up and subsequently confirmed to be positive,” said Nonyane-Mpe.
Police operationalised the information and intercepted a white taxi. A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of two rifles and approximately eight rounds of live ammunition.
The four male occupants were subsequently arrested and charged with unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise, commended the police members for their swift response and the successful recovery of the firearms and ammunition.
“The recovery of illegal firearms and ammunition is a significant contribution towards preventing serious and violent crimes in our communities. We commend our members for acting swiftly on the information received and for ensuring that these firearms do not find their way into the hands of criminals,” said Modise.
He also encouraged members of the public to continue sharing information with the police, saying community cooperation remains vital in efforts to combat crime and create safer communities.
The suspects are expected to appear before a court on charges relating to the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
