EASTERN CAPE – A collaborative team effort and good work by members from Tactical Response Team Bityi, Qumbu and Idutywa SAPS assisted by Crime Intelligence members were handsomely rewarded when a joint operation was conducted and search warrants executed at Lambatho Location and Krakra Admin Area, Mqanduli in the early hours of 08 June 2020.
The operation, aimed at fighting the proliferation of illegal weapons and stock theft in rural towns of Mqanduli, Bityi, Butterworth, Mthatha and Qumbu yielded dividends when three suspects aged 21, 49 and 53 years were arrested.
The first suspect, the 53-year-old was found in possession of a firearms, ammunition and police-issued bullet resistant vest. He was arrested and charged for possession of unlicensed firearm, possession of prohibited firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition and possession of suspected stolen property.
The second suspect, the 21-year-old was arrested after he was found in possession of a firearm. The third suspect, aged 49 years was found in possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
All suspects are expected to appear at the Mqanduli Magistrates Court on 09 June 2020 facing respective charges.