DURBAN: Five suspects aged between 24 and 34 are appearing before the Durban Magistrates’ Court this morning for unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

Last night, Umbilo police officers received information about a group of men that were in a vehicle and were armed with firearms. It was reported that the men were planning to commit a robbery. An operation was put in place and the police officers from the National Intervention Unit also joined the operation. The team proceeded to Helen Joseph Road in Umbilo where a stationary vehicle with five men was spotted.

The suspects attempted to flee the scene upon seeing the police officers but they were surrounded. Upon searching the suspects, they were found in possession of a 9mm pistol as well as a gas pistol and a gas rifle. Police seized eleven rounds of ammunition. The arrested suspects will be profiled to check if they are linked to other serious and violent cases.

Source: South African Police Service