THREE suspects were arrested for impersonating police officers, and weapons and ammunition were “intercepted” from other individuals, during a multidisciplinary operation at the Mariannhill Toll Plaza on Monday, January 5.

The operation was conducted by the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), led by the KZN MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, the Durban Metro Police and the SAPS.

Duma’s spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya said during the operation weapons and 800 rounds of ammunition were intercepted, which resulted in the MEC ordering an investigation.

Sibiya said another suspect was found in possession of police appointment cards.

According to Sibiya, the weapons were recovered from “an arms dealer and a policeman” who were “driving a car full of weapons” and ammunition.

“The two individuals failed to produce valid documents that affirm adherence to the Firearms Control Act. In this regard, we wish to confirm that relevant law enforcement agencies have undertaken an investigation.

Also read: Fireworks cause devastating impact on animals

“Importantly, we do not want our road networks to be used as part of the illegal supply and movements of firearms and ammunition. The proliferation of firearms and ammunition is a major contributor towards violent crimes and robberies.

“A vehicle, which was used by the two individuals, has been impounded, as it was illegally fitted with security lights. This is in contravention of the National Road Traffic Act. By and large, the RTI is clamping down on the use of blue lights in any part of the province,” said Sibiya.

Duma said the security lights were removed from the vehicle and that the failure to adhere to the Firearms Control Act resulted in the individuals being “charged”.

Sibiya said three suspects were also arrested “for impersonating police officers”.

“They were found in possession of fake police appointment cards. They were acting like police officers. And they drove into an RTI operation. They were asked names of RTI commanders and certain orders from Duma. They mumbled something and two tried to run away, leaving their friend behind. RTI gave chase and cornered them. In their car, law enforcement officers found fake police appointment cards,” said Sibiya.

Duma added: “The suspects are in jail now. We don’t play games. We are cleaning our road networks.”

For more from the Highway Mail, follow us on Facebook , X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter here