Zwelitsha 19 February 2024: In a commendable display of vigilance and professionalism, OR Tambo and the Alfred Nzo Tactical Response Teams (TRT) successfully intercepted illegal activities at the funeral of an alleged criminal, resulting in the confiscation of three firearms and three arrests.
Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Nomthetheleli Mene applauded the swift and decisive actions of police, emphasising their commitment to ensuring public safety and upholding the law. It is alleged that on Saturday, 17/02, police monitored the funeral of an alleged criminal who was killed two weeks ago.
At about 10:00, the tactical teams noticed a group of males standing at the robots at the corners of Nqadu Road and N2 near Northcrest in Mthatha. On searching them, two males, aged 28 and 35 years were found in possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. They were arrested and detained on charges of prohibited possession of firearms and illegal possession of ammunition.
During the funeral service, a 45 year old suspect was also arrested for allegedly shooting randomly while at the deceased's homestead. He was detained on charges of illegal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of ammunition and for discharging a firearm in a residential area.
All three suspects will appeared in court on Monday, 19/02 on their respective charges.
Lt Gen Mene has issued a stern warning to suspected criminals, highlighting that police will not tolerate any attempts by individuals who carry out rituals that are customary to discharge firearms during these funerals, endangering the lives of innocent bystanders and further escalating tensions.” Such reckless behaviour is condemned. The discharge of firearms at funerals is not only illegal but also unacceptable. We will not hesitate to take swift and decisive action against anyone found engaging in this dangerous practice,’ warned Lt Gen Mene.