A swift response by the police at Makapanstad led to the apprehension of five suspects aged between 29 and 41 at Mathibestad Village on Friday, 8 February 2019, at about 11:00, for possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
The suspects, Sipho Mukwevho,(29), Jonas Mokwena(32), Ofentse Ithuleng(32),Samuel Moufye(33) and Vusi Sithole(41) appeared before the Moretele Magistrates’ court on Monday 11 February 2019, for possession of suspected stolen vehicle, conspiracy to commit a business robbery as well as possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
Communication officer at the Brits Cluster Commander’s office, Ms Maria Nkabinde, said according to information received, it is alleged that a suspicious looking vehicle with five occupants, was spotted driving around a local tavern and restaurants in the Riverside area. It is further alleged that police, who were on routine patrols, received information about the suspicious vehicle.
Police found the suspicious vehicle at a local store. Upon searching the suspicious vehicle, two firearms were found as well as ammunition. Preliminary investigation was conducted and revealed that the vehicle was stolen at Temba last month.
The Cluster Commander of Brits, Major General Modisagaarekwe Mosimanegape, lauded the police for their unwavering efforts in ensuring that illegal firearms and ammunition, which are used by criminals to commit serious crimes are seized. He further expressed his gratitude to the community for coming forward with information that led to the apprehension of these suspects.
