NELSPRUIT: A 31-year-old suspect is expected to appear in Kwamhlaga Magistrates' Court tomorrow Friday, 24 February 2023 for possession of an unlicensed firearm with serial numbers filled off and 78 live ammunition.

The suspect was arrested in an operation conducted by Nkangala District SAPS Crime Intelligence Unit in partnership with KwaMhlanga Visible Policing members, this morning, Thursday 23 February 2023 at about 03:00.

The intelligence gathered information led members to the suspect's house where he was found in his room. When police searched the suspect's room, a handgun and 78 live rounds were recovered.

Police have since launched an investigation in order to locate the lawful owner of the firearm and circumstances in which the firearm ended up with the suspect. Police's investigation will further be focused on establishing if the firearm was not used in the commission of other crimes.

The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela hailed members for their tireless efforts to eradicate unlawful firearms from the hands of the criminals. "We are fully committed in making sure that community members feel safe in the province and cannot allow a situation whereby criminals are walking freely with deadly weapons," said the General.

Source: South African Police Service