By Kopano Dibakwane
A routine patrol by the police in Hendrina, led to positive arrest of four men who were allegedly caught in possession of six firearms with ammunition at a local shopping centre on Sunday 5 May.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, said the police were checking on various businesses around the shopping centre when they noticed an employee who appeared to be unsettled at a certain retail shop.
“ Members got the message that there were armed suspects in the vicinity,” he said.
According to Mdhluli, the police officers mobilised their resources and tactically approached a Toyota Starlet, which was parked next to the retail shop, with one person inside.
“ A search was conducted by the members who initially found two firearms. The team proceeded with the man to a nearby shop where three other men were nabbed on charges of possession of firearms,” said Mdhluli.
He said that more weapons, which include three 9mm pistols, one revolver, one rifle, one shotgun as well as 71 rounds for various calibres were discovered inside the vehicle upon further search.
“ Though the case has not yet been enrolled in court, pending further investigation to be conducted, the firearms were confiscated by the police and they will undergo ballistic testing. The four men are currently out,
pending this investigation,” said Mdhluli.
