The sting operation was initially set up in Hazyview by police women from the Tactical Response Team (TRT) who were acting on intelligence about an individual seen with a firearm. Upon locating the suspect who matched the provided description, law enforcement conducted a search that resulted in the recovery of the handgun and 10 live rounds of ammunition.
The suspect, unable to produce a firearm license, was arrested on the spot. Investigations are continuing, with the firearm slated for ballistic testing to determine its possible use in previous crimes, which may lead to further charges.
The arrested individual is scheduled to appear at the Mhala Magistrate’s Court on, 23 August 2024.
Additionally, the operation’s reach extended to Hazyview where it culminated in traffic fines totaling R15,000 being issued to 12 drivers for violations under the Road Traffic Act.
Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, praised the operation, noting the crucial role of female police officers in the successful arrest and emphasizing the ongoing efforts to eradicate illegal firearms from the community.
