SAPS POUNCE ON GUNMAN IN MALETSWAI

MALETSWAI: In their quest to get rid of illegal firearms and ammunition, SAPS arrested a man in possession of illegal gun and ammunition.

Back in August, SAPS members stationed at Maletswai were on an operation  to rid the streets of unlicensed firearms and ammunition ensuring public safety and reducing violent crime .

Captain Ursula Roelofse said at about 22:10 members of the Public Order Policing team were busy conducting stop and search activities at Somerset Street, when they  spotted a suspicious male standing next to a fast food outlet carrying a bag.

READ MORE: SAPS IN JOE GQABI NAB A SUSPECT WITH ILLEGAL GUN

“The SAPS member searched him and found a 9 mm Star pistol on his waist loaded with 5 rounds of ammunition and upon searching his bag an additional R5 magazine with 17 rounds of ammunition and 8 rounds of pistol rounds were found in  an ammunition holder,” stated Roelofse.

“The 40-year-old suspect failed to produce any firearm license and was immediately arrested.

“The suspect will appear before the Maletswai Magistrates Court on the charges of the possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.”

According to the Joe Gqabi District Commissioner Major General Lindelwa Vellem, she expressed pride in the efforts of the SAPS members, commending the members on their attentiveness and swift reaction that made the arrest and confiscation possible.

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She added that firearms licensing is crucial in maintaining public safety and the SAPS has a zero tolerance approach towards people that does not adhere to the law.

By Phumzile Ngcatshe