Police officers who were following up on a tip off about a hijacked car arrested three men from Nyanga with firearms. Police went to a given address in Nyanga after they were informed about a hijacked vehicle parked at a certain house.
Upon arriving at the location, officers conducted a thorough search of the premises and were able to recover the stolen vehicle. In a surprising turn of events, they also discovered illegal weapons hidden under the seats. A Dash Prod automatic rifle, equipped with 28 rounds, and a 9 mm pistol, loaded with 16 rounds, were found. Disturbingly, the serial numbers of both firearms had been tampered with or removed.
The three suspects, aged between 28 and 36, were immediately arrested at the scene. They were taken into custody at Nyanga SAPS and charged with possession of a stolen vehicle, as well as the possession of prohibited firearms and ammunition. The arrested individuals are scheduled to appear in the Athlone Magistrates’ court on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in tackling vehicle thefts and illegal firearm possession, shedding light on the need for consistent efforts to track down stolen vehicles and curb the availability of illegal weapons.