Two unlicensed firearms, ammunition and drugs land three men behind bars in Plettenberg Bay

The vigilance of Garden Route District members deployed on entry and exit routes to the Western Cape in line with the provincial policing strategy, CEPPAT, landed three men behind bars after two unlicensed firearms were found in their vehicle on the N2 highway near Plettenberg Bay.

On Thursday, 01 June 2023 at about 00:30, police members conducted an integrated roadblock where they pulled over a Volkswagen T-Cross. While approaching the vehicle the occupants acted suspiciously, which prompted the vigilant members to proceed with a thorough search of the vehicle. Upon searching the vehicles they found a handgun at the feet of a passenger and another concealed in a plastic bag at the back of the vehicle. The members also confiscated 3 gram of cocaine found inside the vehicle. All three occupants were subsequently arrested.

Preliminary investigation indicates that suspects who were en-route to Knysna at the time of their arrest, hails from different towns in the Eastern Cape.

The trio aged between 32 and 33, are expected to make their first court appearance in the Plettenberg Bay Magistrates’ court on Friday, 02 June 2023. They are facing charges of possession of an unlicensed firearms and ammunition as well as possession of drugs. The trio remain in police custody.

Meanwhile, last night, 01 June 2023 at about 22:15, Rural Flying Squad and Crime Intelligence conducted an intelligence driven operation and descended on a farm in Harkerville that is situated between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. A search of the premises ensued and police found various calibres of ammunition, one Browning pistol as well as a zip gun. The 56 year old occupant of the premises was arrested on a charge of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

The suspect remain in custody and will appear in court once charged.

Western Cape police management lauded the members for their vigilance to curb the transportation of illicit goods such as firearms and drugs into the province in an effort to safeguard communities. These high density operations that focus on illegal firearms, drugs, illicit goods and essential infrastructure will be maintained throughout.

Source: South African Police Service