The vigilance displayed by a member attached to Calitzdorp SAPS Visible Policing, who were on routine crime prevention patrols in the CBD ensured the apprehension of a wanted suspect for whom a warrant of arrest was recently issued in connection with a theft case in the town of Calitzdorp.
His arrest subsequently led to the arrest of another suspect and the confiscation of illegal firearms and ammunition.
The members on patrol spotted the suspect in front of a local bank in the centre of town. Members recognized him as a wanted suspect who has a warrant issued for his arrest. They accosted the suspect and arrested him. Upon searching the suspect, they discovered an empty magazine and a few .22 live rounds in his possession.
A further probe led members to a residence in Royal Heights, Calitzdorp where they conducted a search. They then found a .22 pistol, a 38 Revolver and ammunition on the property. A resident of the house was subsequently arrested in connection with the confiscated firearms and ammunition.
Further investigation into the recovery of the firearms and ammunition positively linked it to a housebreaking that occurred at a residence situated in Groenkloof, Calitzdorp which were broken into during November 2020. The safe opened with a grinder and the firearms were removed.
The firearms will be sent for ballistic tests to determine possible linkage to other crimes.
The duo, aged 28 and 29 have been charged with illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. The 29-year-old suspect also faces a charge of theft in relation to the Warrant of Arrest that was issued against his name. They are scheduled to appear in the Calitzdorp Magistrates’ court on Thursday, 08 April 2021.
The Eden Cluster Commander, Major General Oswald Reddy has commended the members for their vigilance and the effort to eradicate the proliferation of illegal firearms and ammunition in their town.
Police management in the Western Cape also commended the members for their vigilance and commitment to eradicate the proliferation of illegal firearms in our province.
