Chinese national arrested for unlawful possession of firearm, ammunition

THE KIMBERLEY Tactical Response Team (TRT) arrested a 29-year-old Chinese national for being in the unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition in Kutlwanong, Galeshewe, on December 7.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam said that members of the crime prevention patrols and the TRT unit spotted a suspicious-looking delivery truck at a business establishment in Kutlwanong and decided to approach it.

“They requested proof of delivery and/or invoices of the consignment in order to verify and execute a routine stop and search. While the members were verifying the consignment against the invoices, the nervous-looking suspect hastily went into the yard. Police members followed and found him at a car inside the yard.”

Sam said the police requested permission to search the car, where they found a bulletproof vest, a black case with a 9mm firearm with two magazines, several hollow-point 9mm bullets and 9mm bullets.

“The suspect failed to produce ownership proof and a license for the firearm and ammunition. The suspect was subsequently arrested for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.”

Sam added that the suspect is expected to appear in the Galeshewe Magistrate’s court soon.

The provincial commissioner, Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola, commended the SAPS members for their vigilance.

She noted that the proliferation of illegal firearms contributed towards the commission of serious and violent crimes.

“The illegal possession of firearms will be vigorously policed during the festive season and beyond.”