Police arrested three suspects in separate incidents on charges of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Police officers patrolling in the gang stricken Northern and hotspot areas in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro arrested three suspects in separate incidents on charges of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition on May 18 and 20.
According to police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu, on May 18, SAPS Gelvandale members arrested a 27-year-old man on a charge of illegal possession of a firearm.
She said it is alleged that while members were patrolling, they noticed the suspect exiting a drug post in Koedoe Street.
“The suspect was stopped and on searching his sling bag, a 9mm pistol was found,” said Naidu.
She further said on May 20 at about 21:30, SAPS Gelvandale Crime Prevention members were patrolling in Dinsmore Road in Schauderville when they noticed a man dressed in dark clothing.
Naidu said as they stopped the police vehicle, the person started running.
He said the members were hot on his heels, and noticed that as he ran, he threw something on the ground.
“He was apprehended. A 9mm pistol, seven rounds of ammunition and a small packet of Khat were confiscated,” said Naidu.
She said the 18-year-old was detained on charges of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition as well as possession of drugs.
Naidu said on the same evening, at about 23:35, Gqeberha K9 unit assisted by the Flying Squad members stopped a white VW Golf with four male occupants in the Walmer area.
“She said as when the vehicle stopped members noticed some fidgeting in the vehicle,” said Naidu.
“The occupants were taken out and searched and a 43-year-old man was arrested with possession of a prohibited firearm and ammunition.”
Naidu said the arrested suspects are expected to appear in the respective magistrate courts on May 22.
She further said the confiscated firearms will be sent for ballistic testing.
Naidu said in the last three months, police in Nelson Mandela Bay have recovered over 150 illegal firearms.
Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Maj Gen Vuyisile Ncata applauded the efforts of the members in the metro and reiterated that police will continue to focus on the proliferation of illegal firearms in the hotspot areas.