Duduza – A 29-year-old man has been arrested for being in possession of an unlicensed firearm with nine live rounds of ammunition on Tuesday.
The police were patrolling in the area after a spate of car hijackings and robberies were reported in the area.
Duduza police spokesperson Sergeant Harry Manaka says the police were conducting stop-and-searches on people and vehicles.
“Members of the police noticed two suspicious-looking men walking along Ranyao Street and decided to approach them.
“The two immediately fled when they saw the police and a chase ensued.
“One of the men was caught and a firearm was found together with live ammunition, the male was arrested,” he says.
Manaka says the firearm’s serial number was filed off and was booked as an exhibit.
“The suspect is said to be from Tsakane and will appear in the Heidelburg Magistrate’s Court soon,” he says.
Duduza SAPS station commander Lt Col Bheki Mhlungu expressed concern about the number of hijackings reported in Duduza.
“It is clear that there is a group of criminals targeting the area with an objective to commit violent crimes.
“We are hoping this arrest will lead to a breakthrough in curbing these criminal activities in the area.
“We urge the community to practise extra caution, especially at night,” he says.
