THREE men aged 19, 20 and 33 appeared at the Wentworth Magistrate’s Court recently on charges relating to the theft of cellphones and possession of an unlicensed firearm.

The first accused, aged 33, was arrested during a police patrol on Croton and Weist Roads. He was found in possession of a revolver and five rounds of ammunition.

Police spokesperson in Wentworth, Captain Mbuso Gumede, said the accused failed to produce a firearm licence.

Also read: Wentworth community confronts policing issues

He appeared in court on May 13 and was remanded to Westville Prison. Captain Gumede said the firearm will be sent for ballistic testing to determine whether it was used in the commission of any crime.

As the police operation continued, the members of the Wentworth Crime Prevention Unit proceeded to Woodville Road where two men were arrested.

“When the police approached the pair, they tried to escape, however, our members managed to arrest them. Two cellphones were found in each suspect’s possession, and they were unable to account for the phones. The members conducted an investigation and discovered that the cellphones were taken in an armed business robbery in Umlazi earlier on the same day,” said Gumede.

According to the police, the victim identified the accused during an identity parade.

Also read: Vispol patrols decrease Wentworth crime

Gumede added, “Further investigation revealed that there was incriminating evidence on the cellphones for hijacking and other serious crimes which were committed. The cellphones were confiscated for further investigation.”

Vispol commander Lieutenant Colonel Cheryl Pillay commended the members for making arrests.

“I would like to commend the members for showing the initiative to fight crime, for being dedicated, upholding the law, making sure that illegal firearms and ammunitions are taken away from the suspects. The illegal firearms are the ones which are used to commit serious crimes and kill innocent community members,” Pillay added.

For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox.