PORT ELIZABETH – Two suspects aged 32 and 45 years old were caught by surprise when the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) members searched their shop this afternoon, 13 December 2020, in Extension 32 in Bethelsdorp.
While patrolling the hotspot areas, AGU members received information that a spaza shop owner in Pepperbush Street allegedly fired at robbery suspects last week and never reported the matter to police. The members proceeded to the shop and upon conducting a search, a 9mm pistol was recovered under the counter, sandwiched between the bread. The two males were arrested and detained on a charge of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. The firearm was reported stolen in Kabega Park in October 2015.
They will appear in the Port Elizabeth Magistrat’s Court on Monday, 14 December 2020.
Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Liziwe Ntshinga is warning criminals that ‘while we intensify our efforts in turning the tide on crime during this festive period, we will be breathing down the necks of criminals. The proliferation of illegal firearms are our priority and we urge the communities to continue to report any suspicions of persons in possession of illegal firearms. Recovered illegal firearms may be considered a success however it is still a serious concern that so many illegal firearms are still used to commit crimes and also in the hands of criminals. The recovery of firearms is a direct result of increased crime prevention operations, police visibility and the efforts of our police officers to ensure that these firearms are taken out of the hands of criminal elements.’
