Police in KZN seized fireworks to the value of R4m on Tuesday.

The fireworks were stolen in an armed business robbery a few days ago in Camperdown.

Colonel Robert Netshiunda, KZN police spokesperson, says during the robbery, suspects entered the premises with firearms and tied up the guards.

They then brought in two trucks and hitched two trailers that were on the premises. The trailers contained fireworks for the upcoming Diwali festival.

“The suspects escaped with the trailers and R4m worth of fireworks. A case was opened at the Camperdown SAPS,” he says.

He adds that members of the SAPS Economic Infrastructure Task Team received intelligence-driven information on the whereabouts of some of the stolen stock.

“A joint operation was conducted with the assistance of the Metro drug team and SAPS crime intelligence.

“Members proceeded to a Hindu temple in Phoenix and found a truck [containing] boxes being offloaded by three [men]. The temple had been set up to sell the fireworks to the public,” he says.

Netshiunda says when the goods were inspected, it was found that they were fireworks that were stolen.

The truck carrying the stolen goods was hired. The owner of the goods was called and he confirmed they were the fireworks that were stolen.

The three men, aged between 34 and 42, were arrested for possession of stolen property.

Netshiunda says 560 cases of fireworks were recovered.

“The truck, valued at approximately R700 000, was also seized, as it was used in the commission of a crime. SAPS Explosive Unit was also called out to the scene, as fireworks are regarded as explosives,” he says.

Netshiunda adds that detectives are investigating.

“The arrest of further suspects is imminent. eThekwini Fire was also informed and further charges relating to the by-laws may be added. All three suspects will appear in Verulam court on Thursday (today),” he adds.