Police in Randfontein chase leads to major weapons bust
Members of the West Rand K9 Unit found an AK-47 and R5 assault rifles with magazines and ammunition during a chase on Monday.
Two people were arrested after they were found with two assault riffles in Randfontein on August 14.
Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said at about 09:45, members of the West Rand K9 Unit were conducting crime prevention patrols in the area when they spotted a suspicious-looking Ford Figo.
“When the members tried to stop the vehicle, the suspects sped off, leading to a chase. During the chase, the driver lost control of the car and caused it to crash. It was during this time that the vehicle was tactically approached and the suspects got out of the vehicle. Upon searching the vehicle, the members found an AK-47 rifle and an R5 rifle with magazines and ammunition. Serial numbers of both rifles were filed off,” said Nevhuhulwi, who added that one of the suspects sustained an injury and was taken to hospital for medical attention.
The two are facing charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
The Provincial Commissioner of the police in Gauteng, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela has applauded the members for their vigilance.
“The proliferation of firearms is a problem in Gauteng and this leads to them being a weapon of choice in most serious and violent crimes committed but this will not deter us. We will continue to make strides and put more effort into ensuring that firearms are removed from the wrong hands,” said Mawela.
Meanwhile, the public has been urged to report any criminal activities on the Crime Stop Line at 08600 10111 or leave anonymous tip-offs on the MySAPS App which can be downloaded on any smartphone. All information received will be treated as strictly confidential.
