Two suspects, aged 26 and 30, have been arrested during a disruptive operation executed by the Provincial Kidnapping Task Team of Serious Organised Crime Investigation of the Hawks, Mthatha National Intervention Unit (NIU) and Mthatha Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC) on 18 January 2024 for charges of possession unlicensed firearms and ammunition. The duo is reportedly to be the close protectors of an alleged taxi boss.
On Thursday 18 January 2024, the disruptive operation spotted two suspicious vehicles at Mthatha one of which were a silver Toyota Fortuner that had two (2) occupants with no registration plates and a white Volkswagen Golf 7 GTI with one occupant. The vehicles were pulled off at a fuel station at Mthatha and was searched. Upon searching the Toyota Fortuner, the team discovered firearms and rifles with live rounds of ammunition in possession of the suspects. Subsequent to that, the occupants of the Toyota Fortuner introduced themselves as security that were escorting the VW Golf 7 GTI who was reported to be a taxi boss.
During the preliminary investigation it was established that the suspects had no firearm licenses and permits to carry firearms. The vehicle was also confiscated for further investigation.
The duo is expected to make their first court appearance at Mthatha Magistrate`s Court on 19 January 2024 on charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya applauded the implausible efforts by joint the team for making sure that the suspects are brought to books. He further praised the determination and dedication showed by the joint team in arresting the suspects.