Man, 71, arrested for homemade firearms in Cato Manor

The man was arrested by members of the eThekwini District Tracing Unit following an intelligence-driven operation.

1 hour ago

Wendy Sithole 1 minute read

Handmade firearms discovered on the premises. Photo: SAPS

A suspect has been charged with possession of unlicensed firearms and live ammunition in Cato Manor.

The operation was executed on Monday (July 20) after Crime Intelligence received information alleging that a 71-year-old man was involved in firearm manufacturing.

SAPS eThekwini District spokesperson, Captain Carmen Rhynes, said, “During the operation police arrested the suspect and seized a significant cache of firearms, firearm components, ammunition and equipment allegedly used in the manufacture and modification of firearms.

“He was found to be modifying replica firearms, manufacturing homemade firearms, selling ammunition of various calibres, and supplying these items to buyers within the eThekwini District.”

Recovered items include MIG 1300 GM Trade welding machine. Photo: SAPS

Police recovered items including three 9mm pistols, seven 9mm pistol frames, two homemade shotguns, eleven firearm barrels of various sizes, eight 9mm pistol slides, 11 firearm magazines, 41 rounds of assorted ammunition, 21 spent cartridges, one MIG 1300 GM Trade welding machine, one CAT DX175 drilling machine, and one CAT DX371 grinding machine.

“The suspect has been charged with possession of unlicensed firearms and possession of live ammunition. He remains in police custody and is expected to appear in court soon. The investigation is continuing, and additional charges may follow as forensic examinations are conducted on the recovered firearms and components,” Rhynes concluded.

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1 hour ago

Wendy Sithole 1 minute read

Wendy Sithole

Wendy Sithole is currently a community media journalist, attached to Berea Mail (Durban). She first joined Caxton Newspapers in 2004. After a newsroom hiatus she rejoined Caxton in 2024. She is responsible for reporting through writing and photography, for both print copy and digital platforms. She studied Journalism and Social Sciences. Apart from reporting, Wendy possesses vast knowledge in the spheres Communication, of Public Relations and Events publicity.