By Kopano Dibakwane
The Mpumalanga Organised Crime Detective Services(within the South African Police Service), arrested a 53-year-old owner and Director of a security company in Nelspruit.
The suspect is reportedly facing a charge of perjury as it is alleged that he sold dozens of firearms, including rifles and pistols, to another security company and later reported the same firearms stolen.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, said the perjury charge emanates from the suspect filing a false report of theft, despite being fully aware of the sale transaction.
“ It has been brought to the attention of the police that the firearms in question were sold to a legitimate entity, which had duly registered these firearms, making it impossible for law enforcement authorities to confiscate them. The alleged actions of the accused pose a serious threat to public safety and the integrity of the law enforcement process,” said Brigadier Mdhluli.
The Acting Provincial Police Commissioner in Mpumalanga, Major-General(Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, said the frequent use of guns in violent crimes calls for firearm-control measures. He furthermore expressed his concern as the suspect is part of law enforcement.
“ The SAPS in Mpumalanga remains committed to upholding the law and ensuring that justice is served. We urge members of the public to report any suspicious activities or irregularities related to firearms to the authorities,” said General Mkhwanazi.
The suspect will reportedly appear at the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court to face the said charges. Brigadier Mdhluli said the police cannot rule out the possibility of more charges being added against the suspect as investigation continues
