EASTERN CAPE: The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) Cash-In -Transit Task Team jointly with Joe Gqabi Crime Intelligence (CI), Tactical Response Team (TRT) Joe Gqabi and Khowa Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC) apprehended a 45 years old suspect at Maclear on 1 October 2024 for charges of unlawful possession of prohibited firearms and ammunition.

It is alleged that on Monday, 01 October 2024, information was received through a reliable source that there are unlicensed firearms at a homestead at Maclear.   Upon arrival, a search was conducted on the premises and one Norinco pistol silver and black in colour, which allegedly belonged to the owner of the homestead was recovered.  He is reported to have produced an expired firearm license, 2 x magazines and a round of ammunition was recovered hidden under the mattress of the suspect. The firearm was confiscated for investigation  purposes.

Upon further investigation, the team was led by the suspect to a piggery where 2 x AK 47 rifles, 2 x magazines and rounds of ammunition wrapped in a clear plastic inside a white bag were recovered. The LCRC team further processed the exhibits. 

The suspect was arrested and is to appear in the Maclear (Nqanqarhu) Magistrates Court on 2 October 2024.

The Provincial Head Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya commended the joint effort of the team hoping for a breakthrough in the scourge of heinous crimes rampant in the Province.

Enquiries: Captain Yolisa Mgolodela

071 481 2429