HAWKS operation in Barberton uncovers illegal explosives
A Zimbabwean citizen was arrested for the possession of illegal explosives.
A 35-year-old Zimbabwean citizen was arrested for possession of explosives and contravention of the Immigration Act on Friday February 2 in Emjindini, Barberton.
The arrest followed a multidisciplinary tactical operation conducted by the Hawks, including the Secunda-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation, the Secunda CIG, the Nelspruit-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation, the White River K9, and Nelspruit Bomb Disposal units.
The team acted on information that led them to the suspect’s residence in Barberton.
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A search of the suspect’s premises revealed the following hidden in various places inside the shop: Nine electronic detonators, 14 shock tube assemblies, 16 blasting cartridges, six industrial drilling bits, and 104m of detonating cord.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the explosives were imported from Zimbabwe. The suspect revealed during the interview that the explosives were primarily sold to illegal miners and other criminal elements.
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The provincial head of the Hawks, Major General Gerber, commended the team’s work, emphasising the importance of combating illegal explosives, commonly used in serious crimes.
The suspect is currently in custody, awaiting his first court appearance in the Barberton Magistrate’s Court on Monday February 5.
The investigation is ongoing, with more arrests anticipated.
