In an effort to eradicate unlicensed firearms in the society, the team attached to Nelson Mandela Bay District Crime Combatting Unit embarked on an operation within the District and arrested four suspects for possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition on Tuesday 10 September 2024.

During the operation at approximately 19:00, the team noticed a white VW Polo with four occupants in Stanford Road. Members gave chase and tried to pull over the vehicle, but the driver tried to evade them. A passenger who was behind the driver’s seat pointed the members with a firearm (hunting rifle) just before turning into Newbolt Street. The members managed to intercept the vehicle and when they engaged with him, he then threw the rifle in the car and fled however, he was swiftly apprehended. The remaining three occupants in the vehicle were also arrested.

The members confiscated a 223 hunting rifle and also impounded the white VW Polo for further investigation. The suspects aged between 21 and 39 will appear in the New
Brighton Magistrate’s Court soon.

The Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Major General Vuyisile Ncata, said confiscation of unlicensed firearms helps in reducing the potential for violent crimes and to ensure safety in our communities. ‘It’s a positive step towards promoting public safety and protecting innocent lives’, he added.

Source: South African Police Service