MOTHERWELL – A 33-year-old suspect has been arrested for the unlawful discharge of a firearm and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition following a shooting incident at a funeral in Motherwell on Saturday, 21 March.

Members of the Motherwell SAPS Technical Response Team acted on information about a possible shooting at a funeral in NU 10, Mbaza Street. While conducting a roadblock operation, officers spotted a white Volkswagen Polo Vivo whose driver allegedly fired shots at the homestead where the funeral was being held.

SAPS said in a statement that the suspect was intercepted, and upon searching the vehicle, police recovered two 9mm pistols with serial numbers removed, two magazines, five rounds of ammunition and two empty cartridges.

The suspect was unable to provide a licence for these items and was arrested. The vehicle was also confiscated.

The suspect is expected to appear in the Motherwell Magistrate’s Court on charges of possession of unlicensed/prohibited firearms, possession of unlicensed ammunition, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in a public place.

Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Major General Vuyisile Ncata, commended SAPS members for their swift response, stating that such actions prevent further violence and reinforce SAPS’ commitment to community safety.