Nine appear in court for alleged possession of firearms and ammunition
One of the groups is believed to be led by a former Barberton councillor and lawyer.
NELSPRUIT – Nine men aged between 19 and 34 appeared at the Low’s Creek Periodical Court yesterday for an alleged possession of firearms and ammunition.
According to the police, their appearance came after they were arrested yesterday at Matsulu after they were involved in a gun battle with another group from the same area. One of the groups is believed to be led by a former Barberton councillor and lawyer were exchanging fire for no reason.
“The nine are reported to have gotten into a double cab bakkie and fled from the scene when they were spotted by the police on the N4. A chase then ensued after police tried to stop them but failed. But they eventually managed to corner and arrest them. Their vehicle was searched and a 9mm Z88 firearm with the serial number filed off as well as a single round of ammunition were found,” said local police’s Colonel Mtsholi Bhembe
The suspects were remanded in custody and will appear again at the Barberton Magistrate’s Court tomorrow today for a formal bail hearing.
