In our efforts to eradicate illegal firearms and make our communities safer, the SAPS in Nelson Mandela Bay District adopted a zero tolerance approach and are making significant strides. Our SAPS members displayed commitment and dedication and did not allow the criminals any space to move during the week and recovered seven firearms in unrelated incidents.

On Sunday, 02 July 2023, at approximately 22:10, in Dinsmore Road, Schauderville, SAPS Gelvandale members executed crime prevention duties when they noticed a male wearing a dark blue jacket and blue jeans, acting suspicious. The member’s approached the suspect and during the search they confiscated a firearm (serial number filed off) with 10 rounds of ammunition. The suspect (25) was arrested on charges of possession of prohibited firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition.

In another unrelated arrest, in Gelvandale area on Thursday, 06 July 2023, at approximately 16:00, in Stanford Road, Korsten, while SAPS members were patrolling the area they noticed a suspect carrying something on his waist. The members approached the suspect and during the search they confiscated a firearm and 15 rounds of ammunition. The suspect, aged 30, was unable to provide a firearm license and was detained on charges of unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition.

Also on Thursday, 06 July 2023 at approximately 20:20, in Koyana Road, Zwide, SAPS members attached to the Public Order Police (POP) Unit were performing duties in Kwazakele area when they noticed a VW Polo driving in front of them. The vehicle was stopped during a routine search resulting in the recovery of a firearm with one magazine and 11 rounds of ammunition, found in the driver’s side door. The 35-year-old suspect was arrested on charges of possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

On Saturday, 08 July 2023, during a high density operation in Gunguluza area, Bantom Street, members stopped a taxi. They noticed that the driver placed an object in the side panel of the door before exiting the vehicle. During the search, the members confiscated a firearm and the suspect, aged 29, was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition.

SAPS Bethelsdorp also recovered three firearms during a crime prevention operation however, no one was arrested and enquiries were opened for further investigation.

The arrested suspects will be appearing in their respective courts soon.

Source: South African Police Service