A routine patrol by the Maitland Flying Squad on Saturday night culminated in the arrest of three suspects and the recovery of a stolen vehicle and an unlicensed firearm loaded with ammunition.
The incident unfolded on Jakes Gerwel Drive in Athlone, when officers observed a white Toyota Camry passing them at high speed. Members immediately pursued the vehicle and successfully brought it to a stop at the corner of Jakes Gerwel Drive and Klipfontein Road.
Upon searching the car, police discovered a firearm along with 43 rounds of ammunition. The occupants of the vehicle could not provide a legitimate account for the weapon. Further investigation at the scene revealed that the Toyota Camry had been reported stolen in the Lansdowne area in August 2025.
The three suspects now face charges for possession of a stolen motor vehicle and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. They are scheduled to make their first appearance in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court in the coming days.
