WESTERN CAPE – Police members of Operation Restore secured the court appearances for six suspects in two isolated cases when they were arrested and detained in possession of a prohibited and unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

Police members deployed in Samora Machel with the focus on ridding the community of criminals in Heinz Park, were busy with patrols in the early hours of Sunday 30 October 2022, when they spotted a Blue Honda, parked in Chiappini Street. When they approached the vehicle they found five unknown males in the vehicle and searched the occupants and the vehicle. They confiscated a 9mm pistol with ammunition. Five males, between the ages of 20 and 37, were arrested and detained on a charge of possession of a prohibited firearm and ammunition.

In an unrelated incident, the police members pursued information and proceeded to an address in Philippi East. They tactically approached a local shebeen on foot, and noticed an unknown man who fled the scene. The police members gave chase and apprehended the man. The 22-year-old man was arrested and detained on a charge of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

Once charged the suspects are expected to make their respective court appearances in the Athlone Magistrate court on the mentioned charges. 

Source: South African Police Service