The police’s Crime Intelligence in Bloemfontein has achieved a significant breakthrough pertaining to illegal firearms, with the arrest of two suspects and the discovery of high-calibre firearms, as well as ammunition.

The suspects, a 36-year-old South African woman and a 46-year-old foreign national man, were expected to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court today, on Tuesday 7 April.

Sgt Mahlomola Kareli, provincial spokesperson for the police, said the suspects faced charges of the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. He said their arrests and the discovery of high-calibre weapons on Sunday were a result of integrated efforts between Parkweg Crime Prevention and Crime Intelligence.

“At about 21:50, the team acted on credible intelligence regarding a male individual suspected of being in possession of illegal weapons,” said Kareli.

“The investigation led the officers to a residence in Dilape Street, Batho, resulting in the seizure of a significant cache of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. Persistent searching led to the discovery of 23 boxes of ammunition of various calibres hidden near a kitchen cabinet.

“In a tactical search of the bedroom, a 36-year-old female was found lying on the bed. She appeared hesitant to move or cooperate with the officers. Once she was moved, a search beneath the mattress revealed four rifles, including an airgun.”

Kareli said a total of 1 163 rounds of ammunition and four rifles were confiscated during the operation. In addition, he said members had found an empty rifle safe that appeared to have been forcibly tampered with in the house.

“The seized firearms and ammunition will be subjected to ballistic testing to determine if they have been used in the commission of crimes. The safe was also confiscated as investigations continue,” said Kareli.