TWO men have recently been convicted at the Durban Magistrate’s Court for possession of unlicensed firearms in separate cases committed in 2023.
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The first case involved Angelo Andren Barrette (39) who was sentenced to five years in prison for the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. Barrette’s arrest occurred on May 12, 2023, when he tried to evade capture during a street crime unit operation in Wentworth on Croton Road area.
According to Captain Mbuso Gumede, spokesperson for Wentworth police station, the officers observed a man acting suspiciously as he retrieved a black holster and subsequently picked up a black pistol.
“When the police tried to confront him, he fled while brandishing the firearm in his hand. After a brief pursuit, he tripped on the stairs, discarded the weapon in the grass, and was arrested with the holster still in his hands,” said Gumede.
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The officers recovered a 9mm pistol with 16 rounds of live ammunition from the scene. The matter was assigned to Detective Bhekinkosi Zulu from Wentworth police station who meticulously prepared the case for court while the accused remained in custody.
The court was also informed of Barrette’s extensive criminal record, which includes convictions for attempted murder, rape, and drug possession. Detective Zulu opposed bail on May 15, 2023, and the accused was held until his sentencing recently.
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“The seized firearm will now undergo ballistics testing to determine any involvement in other criminal activities. The officers from the Metro Street Crime Unit who made the arrest received accolades from the station management for their diligent work,” said Gumede.
Station commander Colonel Sinayo Mtshali praised Detective Zulu for his exceptional investigative acumen and unwavering dedication to his role.
“Detective Zulu’s outstanding work has been pivotal in securing these convictions and enhancing public safety,” Mtshali added.
In a separate case, Stanton Smith, 30, was sentenced to six years in prison for the possession of an unlicensed firearm, with half of the sentence suspended for a period of three years or a R20 000 fine.
Smith was also convicted of malicious damage to property and attempted murder, with these sentences to run concurrently.
The court heard that Smith attacked a family at their home in Wentworth in October 2023.
Captain Gumede said, “The accused fired a shot through the window of the victims’ home, injuring a family member who was then rushed to the hospital for serious injuries. Prior to the shooting, the family had noticed a red car approaching their house, prompting them to flee for safety. After the attack, Smith abandoned his vehicle, which was subsequently set alight by outraged community members.”
Smith had been on the run since October 2023, however, he was arrested and charged on October 4, 2023. Detective Zulu was assigned to the case, conducting a thorough investigation that included visiting the crime scene and interviewing the victims in the hospital.
“Detective Zulu diligently gathered evidence, obtained victims’ statements, and prepared the case for the first court appearance,” Gumede added.
Detective Zulu has secured two significant convictions for unlicensed firearm possession at the Durban Magistrate’s Court, both stemming from incidents in 2023.
Gumede said Zulu’s success in these high-profile cases underscores his commitment to justice and his exemplary investigative skills.
“His achievements reflect a broader effort by the Wentworth police station to combat crime and ensure that offenders face the full extent of the law,” he added.
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