A joint operation by members of Thabong Task Team, Welkom K9 Unit and Thabong Detective Services made a breakthrough when they apprehended a man and a woman, the owner of a shack for possession of two illegal firearms and ammunitions on Wednesday, 06 April 2022 at about 17:00.

Intelligence driven information led the team to Mokhele Street in Thabong. Upon arrival, they found a man and woman sitting in the shack. Members requested permission to search the premise and it was granted. As they were busy with the search, they found two illegal firearms and live ammunitions hidden under the mattress. A 29-year-old woman, who is the owner of the shack and a 41-year-old man were both arrested for possession of illegal firearms and ammunitions.

The two suspects, Mr Moshoeshoe Mpongoa (41) and Me. Lerato Latja (29) appeared today on the 07 April 2022 in the Welkom Magistrate Court. The case was postponed till the 14 April 2022 for bail application. The duo remain in custody.

The Provincial Commissioner of the Free State, Lt Gen BB Motswenyane applauded residents of Thabong for trusting the Police with such sensitive information. "We regard this as a breakthrough because these firearms may be used to commit serious crimes, we are very proud to have such joint teams working together with the community to achieve such results", said the Provincial Commissioner.

Source: South African Police Service