NORTHERN CAPE – A multi-disciplinary team comprising of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Crime Intelligence, Tactical Response Team, Highway Patrol, Dog Unit, and Local Criminal Record Centre yielded good results leading to the arrest of a 41-year-old suspect for unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition yesterday.
The investigation team followed up on information provided by the public about the suspect’s alleged involvement in Tsineng police station robbery that took place on Saturday, 31 July 2021 in Kuruman.
The Minister of Police, Bheki Cele indicated that “While the speedy arrest by the SAPS is commendable, the community must also be lauded for bringing forward information that has led to the arrests. Let this be a lesson for criminals who think they can hide, that communities are sick and tired of crime and are increasingly working together with the police to squeeze out crime.”
It was reported that three armed suspects allegedly entered Tsineng police station pretending to file a complaint. Whilst the police official was busy addressing them, one of the suspects jumped over the counter and pointed her with a firearm.
The police officer was then ordered to open a safe and suspects managed to flee with eight pistols, three rifles, and two short guns with live ammunitions. No shots were fired and no injuries were sustained.
“I commend the speedy response by the team. Many lives have been saved by the recovery of these firearms,” said the National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.
The Investigation team recovered all firearms and ammunition and the suspect will be appearing in the Kuruman Magistrates’ court on Thursday, 5 August 2021. The team is anticipating more arrests.
