The proliferation of illegal firearms that threatens the safety of our communities by contributing to the commission of other serious crimes such as murder, remain a high priority during the execution of crime combatting operations which again yielded excellent results with the seizure of a number of firearms and ammunition which have left a few suspects behind bars.

An integrated crime prevention operations in Philippi police precinct yesterday at about 10:45 landed a 22-year-old man behind when members pounced on a residence at Groenhall Walk Hanover Park. Upon searching the premises, the members discovered a pistol with a magazine as well as a pistol and a magazine that were confiscated and reserved as evidence.

As the search continued, the members found and seized a small quantity of crystal meth and mandrax tablets with an estimated street value of about R2000. An undisclosed amount of cash, believed to be the proceeds of crime, was also seized.

The suspect is expected to make his first court appearance on Monday, 12 December 2022, once charged with the illegal possession of firearms and drugs.

As the fight against illegal firearms continues, members of Maitland Flying Squad yesterday followed up on information received about a firearm at an address in Kuilsriver area. The premises was searched and a firearm was found in a cupboard. A 50-year-old suspect was arrested and detained at Kuilsrivier SAPS on a case of possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. The suspect is scheduled to appear in the Kuilsrivier Magistrates’ court on Monday, 12 December 2022 on the mentioned charges.

Provincial management has lauded the members for their ongoing commitment to rid our communities from the prevalence of illicit firearms and ammunition.

Source: South African Police Service