A pair from Azaadville, believed to be a brother and sister, was arrested over the weekend for conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism.
They, together with two other suspects, were arrested in a joint operation by the Hawks, National Intervention Unit, the Bomb Squad and other law-enforcement agencies on Saturday 9 July for allegedly being involved in terrorism-related activities.
The anti-terror raids in Newclare and Azaadville followed the protracted investigations by the Hawks and State Security.
“Four suspects were identified after they had attempted to travel to Syria in 2015. An international airline, however, refused to accommodate them after being informed of their intentions,” Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi explained in a press release.
The National Head of the Hawks, Lieutenant General Mthandazo Ntlemeza said because these threats are likely, South Africa cannot rest on its laurels.
“It is clear that the arrest of these four is a very big step forward in the fight against terrorism. But we cannot say that the problem has been solved. These terrorist organisations are recruiting in our country and law-enforcement agencies will continue to work around the clock to prevent any form of recruitment on our soil. We will remain on high alert to make sure that we safeguard our citizenry and residents alike. We will diffuse any attempts to form any terrorist groups in our country. Our people should also be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police,” Ntlemeza said.
A stun grenade and 21 bullets were among the weaponry found in the suspects’ possession.
The sister, 25, and brother, 33, are expected to make their first appearance in the Kagiso Magistrates’ Court today (11 July) on charges relating to the illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
More Azaadville news:
Azaadville double murder: police need info
Teacher murdered in Azaadville
Police stumped by Azaadville killings
Other related articles:
Drug lab operating on farm raided by cops
Hawks arrest local Sassa official
