A 30-year-old suspect has been arrested after police recovered four unlicensed firearms and ammunition during an intelligence-driven operation in the Umzinyathi District on Tuesday, June 16.

The operation was led by the Umzinyathi District Crime Intelligence Unit, working alongside members of Newcastle Public Order Policing, following information linking a suspect to alleged stock theft activities in the district.

According to Umzinyathi SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Siyabonga Nkwanyana, police acted on intelligence received and proceeded to the Mahlaba area in the Pomeroy district, where the suspect was believed to be residing.

“Upon arrival at the identified premises, members conducted a search operation and found a female suspect in possession of four unlicensed pistols as well as ammunition,” said Sgt Nkwanyana.

Police immediately seized the firearms and ammunition for further investigation.

The recovered weapons will undergo ballistic testing to determine whether they may have been used in the commission of other crimes within KwaZulu-Natal or elsewhere in the country.

The suspect was arrested and charged with possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. She is expected to appear in the Msinga Magistrate’s Court soon.

Firearm recovery remains a policing priority

Acting Umzinyathi District Commissioner Colonel Nhlakanipho Mpungose commended officers involved in the operation for their vigilance and commitment to combating serious and violent crime.

“The recovery of illegal firearms remains a priority for SAPS as these weapons are often linked to violent crimes, including murder, robbery and stock theft. We commend our members for their dedication and encourage communities to continue working closely with the police by providing information that assists in the fight against crime,” said Col Mpungose.

Sgt Nkwanyana said intelligence-led operations remain an important tool in disrupting criminal activity and removing illegal firearms from communities.

Police have urged residents to continue reporting criminal activity and suspicious behaviour, adding that information received from the public often plays a crucial role in successful operations and arrests.

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