Two men were arrested and a stash of illegal firearms and ammunition was seized in a SAPS operation in the Msinga area over the Easter weekend.

Constable Siyabonga Nkwanyana, Umzinyathi SAPs spokesperson, described the operation as ‘multidisciplinary’ that included members from the KwaZulu-Natal Tactical Response Team (TRT), Newcastle Public Order Police (POP), and Umzinyathi District Crime Intelligence.

SAPS members swooped on the first target in the Nyandu area, where a man was arrested for being in possession of an unlicensed pistol and ammunition.  From there, the team descended on a second target where another was apprehended and an unlicensed pistol and ammunition confiscated.

Constable Nkwanyana said information was received of another weapons stash at a third home. When police arrived, the house had been abandoned, but two .303 rifles, a pistol, and ammunition were found.

All the recovered firearms will undergo ballistic testing to determine whether they were used in the commission of any crimes.

The suspects, aged 32 and 44,  are soon to appear before the Msinga Magistrates’ Court

Umzinyathi District Commissioner, Major General Francis Slambert, commended the team for their relentless efforts in removing illegal firearms from the community. “The removal of these dangerous weapons from our streets is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and security of our residents. We applaud the dedication and commitment of all members involved,” said Major General Slambert.

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