LAW enforcement officers in Nelson Mandela Bay confiscated almost 100 firearms and more than 1700 rounds of ammunition between the start of the festive season and the beginning of January.
As part of their efforts to eradicate illegal firearms and make communities safer this festive season, police in the metro adopted a zero tolerance policy on crime and criminals, with the implementation of Operation Vala Konke.
A total of 77 illegal firearms and 1 726 rounds of ammunition were seized and various arrests made, including an arrest for a firearm reported stolen 18 years ago.
During the latest seizures and arrests, when members of the Anti-Gang Unit arrested two suspects for illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition the members acted on information and arrested two more suspects in a house in Schauder Avenue, Holland Park.
According to police spokesperson, Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg, the suspects were seen running into a house and were allegedly in possession of a firearm.
“The members found the two suspects and recovered a .44 revolver and one round of ammunition. The firearm was reported stolen at SAPS Vosman during May 2005,” she said.
Approximately an hour later, Anti-Gang Unit members acted on information of a blue Renault Kwid suspected to be transporting firearms.
“The vehicle was intercepted at the corner of Chrissie Street and Standford Road in Korsten. A search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of a rifle and shotgun. The 40-year-old suspect was arrested on two charges of the illegal possession of firearms.
“The Renault Kwid was also impounded for further investigation.”
Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Major-General Vuyisile Ncata, applauded the work conducted by the members during the festive season.
“The seizure of these 77 firearms has definitely made a positive impact on the serious crime within our district.
“We appreciate the anonymous ‘tip-offs’ by the community and urge them to continue working with the police so that together we can make a difference in the reduction of crime within our communities.”
– ISSUED BY SAPS
