Eldorado Park police seize cache of illegal firearms, arrest suspect

An intelligence-driven operation has led to the arrest of a suspect and the seizure of several unlicensed firearms and ammunition in Eldorado Park, south of Johannesburg.

The operation was carried out on Wednesday, July 22, by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), assisted by Gauteng Traffic Wardens and Crime Intelligence.

According to police, the operation began at about 18:00 after Eldorado Park Crime Prevention members received information about a man allegedly in possession of unlicensed firearms at a residence in Mahonie Crescent, Ext 3.

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On arriving at the property, officers reportedly noticed suspicious movement inside the house before entering and conducting a search.

Police recovered a silver 9mm pistol with an empty magazine, magazine pouch and holster, nine rounds of 9mm ammunition, and a black 9mm CZ pistol with two empty magazines, a double magazine pouch and 22 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

A further search allegedly uncovered two additional 9mm CZ pistols, without magazines, concealed inside an artificial leg in one of the bedrooms, along with three loaded magazines.

Officers also found a 12-gauge shotgun hidden inside a built-in wall compartment. The firearm was loaded with five live rounds and one rubber round, while a further six 12-gauge rounds of ammunition were seized.

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The suspect was arrested on charges of possessing unlicensed firearms and ammunition. He remains in custody at Eldorado Park SAPS and is expected to appear in court.

SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Fezeka Khobo said the operation demonstrated the value of intelligence-led policing and cooperation between law enforcement agencies.

“The swift response by our members, together with our law enforcement partners, led to the removal of several dangerous firearms and ammunition from the community. We remain committed to combating the proliferation of illegal firearms and ensuring the safety of residents. Investigations into the matter are continuing,” said Khobo.

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The management of Eldorado Park SAPS, under Station Commander Brigadier Maluleke, commended the members involved for their professionalism and dedication during the operation.

Police urged members of the public to continue reporting criminal activity. Anyone with information about illegal activities in the Eldorado Park policing precinct can contact Eldorado Park SAPS on 011 946 0300 or 082 444 3001. Anonymous tip-offs can also be made via the SAPS Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111.