Wentworth detective nabs repeat offender

A 29-YEAR-OLD man was sentenced to five years imprisonment and declared unfit to possess a firearm and ammunition after he was convicted of being in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

According to Wentworth police spokesperson, Captain Mbuso Gumede, the accused was arrested on May 5, 2022, at about 09:00 by metro police officers who were on duty conducting crime combating operation duties in the area.

“The accused, together with other men, were seated in a known spot where drugs activities normally take place. Metro street crime watch officers were suspicious and stopped and conducted a bodily search. A special Taurus revolver firearm and live ammunition was found in possession of the accused.

ALSO READ: Wentworth police warn residents of increase in home invasions

“When police questioned the accused and asked for a licence for the firearm and ammunition, he did not have any and was then arrested,” Gumede said.
The case docket was assigned to Detective Bhekithemba Manqoba Zulu from the Wentworth police station.
“It was found that the accused had committed a theft of firearm in the Donnybrook area, and he was released on bail with certain conditions before, but evaded justice and failed to appear in court in the Donnybrook theft case, and had previous convictions.

“The investigator therefore opposed his release on bail in court. The accused remained in custody and was linked to the theft case registered at Donnybrook police station.
“On numerous court appearances, the accused pleaded guilty on both counts and was sentenced to five years imprisonment. The firearm will be sent to ballistics to check if it was used in any other commission of a crime,” added Gumede.

ALSO READ: Wentworth police aim to ensure community safety

Station commander of the Wentworth police station, Colonel Sinayo Mtshali, said commended the investigator, Zulu, for ensuring that the accused was finally sentenced and thanked metro officers who effected the arrest and removed of illegal firearm and ammunition from the hands of accused.

“This firearm could have killed innocent lives and possibly been involved in the commission of a serious crime in the area. We thank Metro officers who are doing great policing duties in the area of Merewent and making sure there is stability by protecting our community,” Mtshali said.

For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also follow us on Instagram.