Operation Lockdown III yielded results in the Lwandle police precinct last Friday (7 August), as three suspects were arrested for the possession of an unlicensed firearm and a prohibited fire arm, as well as the illegal possession of ammunition.

Provincial police spokesperson Constable Ndakhe Gwala says members of Operation Lockdown III received information about three armed suspects, driving a silver Ford Focus sedan and allegedly extorting businesses in Nomzamo area.

“They spotted the vehicle at Xakia Street around 21:30,” she said. “One of the suspects attempted to flee with a plastic bag, but he was apprehended and two firearms were recovered along with 15 rounds of ammunition.”

The three suspects, aged 22 to 24, were expected to appear at the Strand Magistrates’ Court yesterday (Tuesday 10 August).

A 46-year-old man will appear in the Somerset West Magistrates’ Court following his arrest on firearm related charges last Thursday (6 August).

Acting on a tip-off, officers from Somerset West police’s Crime Prevention Unit responded to the information received at 11:00 and found the suspect in Wessels Street.

When searching him, they discovered a black Taurus 9 mm pistol with 17 live rounds in his possession. The suspect could not provide a valid firearm licence or proof of ownership, leading to his arrest.

He is expected to appear in court on charges of the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

Somerset West police station commander Colonel Jacolize Fleischmann commended the officers on the swift arrest.