Routine check uncovers hidden firearms
A security officer, was apprehended with alleged stolen copper cables. He was later linked to the theft of a firearm.
Two suspects were arrested on Tuesday in separate police operations for having unlicensed firearms in their possession.
Police officers from Lyttelton and Mamelodi East were conducting ongoing crime prevention efforts when the arrests were made.
Spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk said the first arrest followed a call to Lyttelton police regarding a suspect apprehended for what was believed to be stolen copper cables.
He said during the preliminary investigation, it was discovered that the suspect, a security officer, might also be connected to the theft of a firearm belonging to the very security company he worked for.
“Officers accompanied him to his residence in Atteridgeville, where a search of his room uncovered a revolver loaded with five rounds of ammunition,” said Van Dyk.
He said the suspect could not produce a valid firearm licence or give a credible explanation for the weapon and was arrested on the spot.
“In a separate incident on the same day, Mamelodi East police officers were conducting routine stop-and-searches when they stopped a foreign national.”
Van Dyk explained that during the search, police found a 9mm pistol and three rounds of ammunition in the man’s possession.
“Like the first suspect, he had no firearm licence and failed to give a reasonable explanation for carrying the weapon,” he said.
Van Dyk said the suspect was also arrested and charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
He said both guns were sent for ballistic testing to see if they were used in other crimes.
District commissioner Major-General Samuel Thine praised the officers involved for their vigilance and professionalism.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the SAPS to ridding communities of illegal firearms and ensuring the safety of all residents in Tshwane.
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