Police arrest trio for armed robbery and possession of illegal firearms in Chiawelo
Moroka police arrested three suspects following a swift response to an armed robbery in Chiawelo. Two unlicensed firearms and stolen items were recovered.
Three suspects aged between 30 and 40 have been arrested in connection with an armed robbery and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition in Chiawelo, Soweto.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), officers from Moroka were conducting routine patrols on August 3 when they received a tip-off about a vehicle linked to an earlier armed robbery in the area.
Police reacted swiftly and located the vehicle with three occupants matching the description. Upon stopping and searching the suspects and the vehicle, officers recovered:
* a 9mm pistol with eight live rounds
* a revolver with four live rounds
* cash and a cellphone were stolen during the robbery
SAPS confirmed that the serial numbers on both firearms had been filed off.
The suspects were immediately arrested and are currently in police custody. They will soon appear in court on charges of armed robbery, possession of unlicensed firearms, and ammunition.
Investigations are ongoing, and authorities say more charges could follow as they probe whether the suspects are linked to other criminal cases.
The Johannesburg District Commissioner, Major General Nonhlanhla Kubheka, praised the officers involved for their swift action.
“We commend the members for their commitment and quick response. Removing illegal firearms from our communities is a priority in keeping our residents safe,” she said.
