This morning, Thursday 07 November 2024 around 04h30 am, members of the SAPS Flying Squad in White River conducted a routine patrol in the area when they encountered a white Toyota single Cab bakkie. The driver of the vehicle ignored the instructions of the members and attempted to evade them by driving off at high speed.
A pursuit ensued as the members of the Flying Squad chased after the suspect. After a determined effort, the SAPS members managed to stop the vehicle. Upon searching of the vehicle, a high calibre of firearms with dozens of ammunition were discovered.
The seized items include: eight (08) AK-47 rifles, one R1 rifle, one R4 rifle, one R5 rifle, one pistol, one revolver, two grenades, and dozens of live ammunition round.
The successful operation by the SAPS Flying Squad in White River is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our members in combating crime and ensuring the safety and security of our communities. The swift and decisive action taken by our officers has undoubtedly prevented these dangerous weapons from falling into the wrong hands and potentially causing harm.
The suspect has been arrested and will be facing charges related to the possession of illegal firearms and ammunition.
The firearms will undergo ballistic testing to determine whether they were not previously used in the commission of crime elsewhere hence Police cannot rule out the possibility of adding more charges against the suspects as the investigation continues.
The SAPS will continue to work tirelessly to rid our streets of illegal firearms and to bring those responsible for such criminal activities to justice.
We urge the community to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities or information that may assist in combating crime. Together, we can make our communities safer and more secure.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi has commended members for the the job well done. “Our Festive Season Operation is indeed yielding positive results, ” said the General.
Meanwhile the MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Mr Jackie Macie has also praised the police for the recovery saying that he is happy because the success comes after the recent launch of the highway patrol in the province.
“It is very disturbing and worrisome for this kind of dangerous weapons to be found in the hands kf criminals. This shows that as a province we are not safe because we don’t know where these firearms were destined to and what were they going to be used for.
Hopefully the arrested suspect will shed more Iight into this,” said the MEC.