Crime combating operations gain momentum in Amathole District

During a successful operation by Amathole District Tactical Rapid Team (TRT) over the weekend at Dutywa, a total of 10 suspects aged between 26 and 35 were arrested for possession of two unlicensed firearms and ammunition and possession of suspected stolen property.

The Amathole TRT members were busy with crime prevention duties when they received positive information about two suspicious vehicles (white Toyota and Toyota Etios) with false number plates that are allegedly heading towards Mthatha. Upon responding to the information, members spotted the two vehicles traveling at high speed towards Dutywa. The team gave chase until they managed to tactically approach and cornered them along the N2 next to Dutywa. Upon further investigation, Police recovered two firearms with ammunition and the second vehicle was also stopped along the N2 and Police recovered bags full of clothing suspected to be stolen.

The firearm will be subjected to ballistic testing to establish any linkages to other crimes committed in the country. Police discovered that the confiscated vehicles with false number plates were not reported stolen but the owners are from KwaZulu Natal.

All these suspects are appearing at Dutywa Magistrate’s Court on today on charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition and possession of suspected stolen property.

The District Commissioner Major General Ngangema Xakavu commended the members on the successful arrests and confiscation of the unlicensed firearms that is of the streets as this prevents any criminal activities in our policing areas.