The Joe Gqabi Tactical Response Team deployed in some areas of OR Tambo District Municipality has apprehended an 18-year-old African male suspect in Tsolo. The young man was arrested at his residence in Magutywa area, located in Kumnkani Mhlontlo Municipality for possession of an unlicensed assault rifle (AK-47) along with ammunition. His arrest comes just as law enforcement officials are battling with the rise of gun related crimes in the Eastern Cape.
The operation was part of the SAPS ongoing crime prevention initiatives aimed at enhancing community safety. Authorities believe that the suspect may have been keeping firearms after engaging in criminal activities, raising serious concerns about public safety in the area.
Following his arrest, the suspect was brought before the Tsolo Magistrate Court on October 17, 2024. He faces serious charges, including possession of an unlicensed firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition. The case was postponed until Monday, October 21, 2024, for a formal bail application.
This arrest not only underscores the police’s unwavering commitment to reducing gun violence but also highlights the crucial role of community vigilance in identifying and reporting suspicious activities, especially with the recent crimes that include illegal firearms in the Eastern Cape. Law enforcement officials are urging residents to remain alert and report any illegal firearms in their vicinity, reinforcing that collective effort by relevant stakeholders is vital in making the community safer for all. Residents from Tsolo have praised the efforts of the SAPS in combating crime. As the legal process unfolds, the Tsolo community is hopeful for a more secure environment free from the threats posed by illicit weapons.
