Caption: Major-General Dorah Xaba leading Operation Basadi in Hazyview
Suspect nabbed for alleged poss
By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
A 43 year-old male suspect was arrested for possession of unlicensed firearm and live ammunition in Acornhoek on Thursday 22 August, during Operation Basadi led by SAPS(South African Police Service)Acting District Commissioner of Ehlanzeni, Major-General Dorah Xaba.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, said the suspect was nabbed by members of the Tactical Response Team(TRT) who responded swiftly and followed information that led them to Acornhoek, where the arrest was made.
“ Further details outlined that members managed to recognise the man, who matched the description as details provided. The man was approached by law enforcement agencies whereby a search followed suit. It was during this period that the forearm as well as 10 live ammunition were recovered,” said Mdhluli.
He said that the suspect failed to produce a firearm license and further investigation revealed that the serial number on the firearm was filed off. Mdhluli also said that the firearm will undergo ballistic testing to ascertain if it was used to commit other crimes, which might warrant the possibility for other charges to be added against the suspect.
“ The suspect is expected to appear at the Mhala Magistrate’s Court on Friday 23 August,” said Mdhluli.
The sting operation is said to have led to 12 drivers in Hazyview being slapped with R15 000 fine each for Contravention of the Road Traffic Act.
