Police in Mpumalanga have intercepted and arrested a man who was carrying 13 firearms, including eight AK-47 assault rifles, an R1 rifle, an R4 rifle, an R5 rifle, and two grenades.
In a joint statement, the Mpumalanga Department of Community safety, Security and Liaison and the SA Police Service (SAPS) said on Thursday morning, at around 4am, members of the SAPS Flying Squad in White River were on routine patrol when they encountered a white Toyota single cab bakkie.
Police instructed the motorist to stop but the driver ignored their orders and attempted to evade police 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, high calibre firearms with dozens of ammunition were discovered,” said Mpumalanga provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli.
After a thorough search, police discovered and seized items including the eight AK-47 rifles, one R1 rifle, one R4 rifle, one R5 rifle, one pistol, one revolver, two grenades, and dozens of live ammunition round.
Law enforcement authorities in Mpumalanga said the successful operation by the SAPS Flying Squad in White River is a testament to the dedication and commitment to combat crime and ensure the safety and security of 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,” said Mdhluli.
The motorist was 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 previously used in the commission of crimes elsewhere.
Police cannot rule out the possibility of adding more charges against the arrested man.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Meanwhile, acting provincial commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi has commended police for the success.
“Our festive season operation is indeed yielding positive results,” said Mkhwanazi.
Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie has also heaped praise on the police officers.
"It is very disturbing and worrisome for this kind of dangerous weapons to be found in the hands of 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,” he said.
“Hopefully the arrested suspect will shed more light into this.”
IOL