Westonaria police arrested a man aged 23 for the possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition on Thursday, July 21.

Sergeant Audrey Sefara, Westonaria police spokesperson said at about 09:00 members were patrolling around the Westonaria Cemetery when they spotted a man walking around the open field.

When he noticed the police, he started running away.

“Police chased him and caught up with him. They searched him and found a firearm in his possession, but he could not produce a licence or any information regarding the firearm. He was apprehended and a case docket of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition was opened.

The firearm will be taken for ballistic testing to ascertain if it had been used in the commission of any serious and violent crimes.”

West Rand District Police commissioner Major General Fred Kekana applauded the members for their hard work and dedication. He is also pleased that a firearm was removed from the streets.

The suspect will appear before the Westonaria Magistrate’s Court soon.