EVATON. – Two men were arrested by the Vereeniging VCIU Tracing Team after being found in possession of an explosive device.

The arrest happened in the early hours of Friday morning after police pursued intelligence received pertaining an adult African male who was alleged to be in possession of an explosive device in Small Farms area.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Thembeka Maxambela reports that upon receiving the information, the team pursued the suspect.

Maxambela says, “The Vereeniging VCIU tracing team went above their mandate to trace the suspect and to recover the alleged explosive device.

“Upon being located, A 36-year-old man found at Zitha Section in Small Farms told the police that he indeed has an explosive device. He further stated that the device is with 38-year-old friend residing at Selborne Road Small Farms.

Maxambela says at approximately 00:45, police went to the said address and found the suspect present.

“While police were searching the premises, the man revealed a black plastic containing a bomb inside.”

According to Maxambela, an explosives expert was called to the scene and on arrival, confirmed that the content of the plastic bag was indeed an active explosive device.

“The expert further indicated that the explosive was a timer bomb. The explosive was secured and placed inside forensic bags. The two undocumented nationals from Lesotho were arrested and charged with possession of an explosive. The two will appear in court soon,” Maxambela concludes.