Thembisa suspect arrested for stolen firearm
Investigation revealed the seized firearm was reported stolen during a past robbery.
The SAPS took an illegal firearm off Thembisa’s streets in a recent operation by the Thembisa sector commanders.
Acting on intelligence from Ekurhuleni North District Crime Intelligence members, SAPS swooped on an address in Teanong Section on July 21.
The information indicated that a 30-year-old suspect was in possession of an unlicensed firearm.
The suspect was apprehended and on searching the premises, officers discovered a 9mm CZ firearm.
The firearm’s serial number was filed off.
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Further investigation revealed the seized firearm was reported stolen during a common robbery on George Nyanga Street in Teanong Section.
Unsuspecting victims were targeted, primarily strangled and robbed of their possessions.
After the robbery early this year, the firearm owner said it had 15 live rounds of ammunition, but when recovered from the suspect, it only had six live rounds left.
Expressing his gratitude to the members of the SAPS, Colonel Percy Selematsela emphasised the importance of informants.
He commended their work in apprehending the suspect and seizing the firearm.
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The suspect faces charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition and will soon appear in the Tembisa Magistrate’s Court.
This success by the SAPS members was a reminder of their commitment to the safety and well-being of the community.
The timely and targeted response to actionable intelligence removes dangerous weapons from circulation and reinforces public trust in the authorities.
The SAPS will continue to tackle the issue of illegal firearms and ensure the security of residents in Thembisa and its surrounding areas.
