HARRISMITH - On 26 July 2022 a member of the Harrismith Detective was out on a tracing operation at Intabazwe near Harrismith when he met a 21-year-old complainant who opened a case of assault against a friend. The duo reportedly had a dispute over the weekend about his deceased uncle's firearm. The complainant took the police to his uncle's grave where he dug out a black plastic bag containing a firearm with 18 live rounds. He was immediately arrested and charged for possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
In another incident the same day, at approximately 20:30, Phuthaditjhaba Tactical Response Team received information about a suspicious silver BMW with ND registration plate tavelling on the N5 between Bethlehem and Harrismith.
Information was operationalized and the vehicle was spotted. Members managed to pull over the vehicle for a stop and search. Following a thorough search, the firearm was found hidden underneath the carpet in the vehicle. The 37-year-old driver was arrested and charged with possession of unlicensed firearm.
Both suspects will appear before the Harrismith Magistrate’s court.
The Free State Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane applauded the members for their vigilance and swift action and further thanked community members for being the eyes and ears of the police.
Source: South African Police Service