NAMAHADI – The Phuthaditjhaba Tactical Response Team has swiftly arrested a 26-year-old man from Thababosiu village in Qwaqwa on Sunday afternoon while he attempted to sell an illegal firearm. His arrest follows after a concerned member of the pubic alerted the police on 24 July 2022 at about 14:30.

The TRT members swiftly responded and upon conducting a stop and search of the identified suspect, they found in his possession a Norinco 9mm pistol with a serial number, one magazine and three 9mm live round of ammunition. The firearm will also be circulated to establish ownership and how it landed in the hands of the suspect.

The suspect has been charged and expected to appear before the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 26 July 2022, facing charges of possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunitions.

The Free State Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Baile Motswenyane applauded the community members for realization of national project ‘Eyes and Ears’ in order to curb crime. “It’s very important that we remove illicit firearms from the wrong hands as they become detrimental within our society. I also want to thank our members for taking drastic steps and did what was right in terms of law and serving our community.” Said the Provincial Commissioner.

Source: South African Police Service