Suspect arrested with unlicensed firearm in Eldos
Operation Shanela 2 in Eldorado Park results in arrest of armed suspect and several other offenders across multiple offences.
A suspect was arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition during Provincial Operation Shanela 2 conducted in the Eldorado Park policing precinct on May 2.
Police from across the Soweto East District were deployed throughout the precinct as part of the operation, with officers strategically positioned in identified hotspot areas to enhance visibility and ensure effective law enforcement.
According to Eldorado Park SAPS media liaison officer Sergeant Fezeka Khobo, members of the Crime Prevention Unit, together with Gauteng Traffic Wardens, responded to a complaint of a shooting incident in Mapelaberg Street, EXT 2.
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Upon arrival, officers observed three men in the street. The suspects attempted to flee when they noticed the police, prompting a chase. One suspect was apprehended.
The suspect was searched after consent was obtained, and police recovered a 9mm Z88 Parabellum firearm with two live rounds of ammunition from his possession. He was unable to produce a valid licence for the firearm.
He was immediately arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition and detained at Eldorado Park SAPS cells. He is expected to appear in court once charged.
In a separate incident during a roadblock operation on the Golden Highway, police discovered two bulletproof vests in the possession of a motorist. The individual was arrested for possession of state property.
Further enforcement actions during the operation led to the arrest of 10 suspects for driving under the influence of alcohol, 18 suspects for possession of drugs, and 17 undocumented foreign nationals.
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A Toyota Quantum with tampered chassis and engine numbers was also confiscated.
Compliance inspections conducted at various premises resulted in the closure of six liquor outlets for failing to meet regulatory requirements.
Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni confirmed that police operations will continue across the province to strengthen safety and law enforcement.
Eldorado Park SAPS station commander Brigadier Mkhaceni Maluleke expressed appreciation to all participating officers and stakeholders, noting that criminals often seem to anticipate the timing of police operations.
He added that the station maintains a dedicated standby team to continue enforcement efforts beyond planned operations.
