STERKSPRUIT — In a concerted effort to combat the spread of unlicensed firearms, police in the Eastern Cape conducted a series of operations over the recent weekend, resulting in the arrest of two individuals in Sterkspruit and Mount Fletcher. The operations focused on reducing crime and enhancing community safety within the precincts.

According to South African Police Service, the arrested suspects, aged 19 and 45, were found in possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. The police undertook various crime prevention activities, including vehicle and foot patrols, checks on liquor stores, taverns, and businesses dealing in second-hand goods. These efforts also led to arrests related to robbery, possession of stolen property, housebreaking warrants, and the illegal sale of liquor. Additionally, officers confiscated dangerous weapons, dagga, and copper wire. Brigadier Asogran Naidoo, the acting District Commissioner of Joe Gqabi, praised the officers for their diligence, highlighting the removal of firearms from the streets as a crucial step in preventing serious crimes.