Police have arrested six suspects aged between 21 and 32 and recovered three unlicensed firearms and 31 rounds of ammunition during an intelligence-driven operation in Ermelo yesterday.

SAPS members from the Organised Crime Investigation Unit, Anti-Hijacking Task Team and Crime Prevention Unit in Gert Sibande District intercepted a white Ford Ranger travelling from Barberton towards Ermelo.

An AK-47 assault rifle and two pistols with filed-off serial numbers were found in the vehicle.

Police also recovered four licensed firearms and additional ammunition reportedly belonging to one of the suspects, who is said to own a security company in KwaZulu-Natal.

The vehicle was seized for further investigation.

All confiscated firearms will undergo ballistic testing to establish whether they were used in other crimes.

Police have not ruled out additional charges as the investigation continues.

The six suspects face charges relating to the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

They are expected to appear in the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court tomorrow.

Read more about the additional licensed firearms recovered and the planned ballistic investigations in the Highvelder’s printed edition.