According to SAPS statement: The Mangaung Metro Crime Combating Task Team arrested a 45-year-old male for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, during an intelligence-driven operation as part of the #SaferFestiveSeason actions.
Crime Intelligence Gatherers were tasked to trace suspects involved in a burglary that occurred at a bottle store, in the Re-a-hola Complex in Botshabelo.
The suspects attempted to blast a drop-safe with explosives unsuccessfully, with one getting injured in the process. Police used security camera footage to identify the suspects.
The first suspect was spotted walking along the road in J-Section, Botshabelo. The team reacted swiftly, and an arrest was made. The home of the 55-year-old suspect was searched, and evidence was recovered.
The second suspect was traced to F-Section, and upon searching his residence, police found another bunch of bullets:
*22mm calibre rifle, seventy-four live.
*22mm Hirtenberger ammunition, thirteen 12-gauge (green) ammunition, twenty-nine 12-gauge (red) ammunition, and cleaning rods.
The two suspects were then arrested for a business burglary that occurred at the Re-a-hola Complex.
A case docket for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition was also opened, and the 45-year-old suspect was charged. Both suspects will appear before the Botshabelo Magistrate’s Court soon.
BY LUCKY SEANEGO
