PARKTOWN: Monday, 14 August 2023: The efforts of the police to fight the proliferation of firearms continue to yield good results as members of West Rand District recovered two assault rifles with ammunition and arrested two suspects. On Monday, 14 August 2023 at about 09:45, members of West Rand K9 unit were conducting crime prevention patrols in Randfontein area when they spotted a suspicious looking Ford Figo vehicle. When the members tried to stop the vehicle, the suspects sped off, leading to a chase.
During the chase, the Ford Figo driver lost control causing the vehicle to crush. The vehicle was tactically approached and the suspects alighted from the vehicle. Upon searching the vehicle, the members found an AK-47 rifle, R5 rifle with magazines and ammunition. Serial numbers of both rifles were filed off. One of the suspects sustained an injury and was taken to a local hospital for medical attention. The duo is expected to appear before court soon on charges of possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
The Provincial Commissioner of the police in Gauteng, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela has applauded the members for their vigilance. "The proliferation of firearms is a problem in Gauteng and this leads to them being a weapon of choice in most serious and violent crimes committed but this will not deter us. We will continue to make strides and put more effort in ensuring that firearms are removed from the wrong hands," said Lt Gen Mawela.
The public is urged to report any criminal activities on the Crime Stop Line at 08600 10111 or leave anonymous tip-offs on MySapsApp which can be downloaded on any smartphone. All information received will be treated as strictly confidential.