The pursuing efforts of the Anti Gang unit in eradicating the proliferation of illegal firearms in the northern areas of Port Elizabeth and its surrounding clusters are most certainly bearing the fruits of their persistence.
In a space of 48 hours, four firearms were seized and suspects arrested. On Saturday morning, 27 July 2019, at about 03:15, AGU members followed up on information received about a firearm at a house in Kawa Street in Zwide. On arrival at the house, members spotted a group of males sitting around a fire. As they approached, one male got up and ran. Police ran after him and when they were at the back of a house, the suspect, aged 32 pointed a firearm at the police officer. The officer fired one shot injuring him in his abdomen. He was arrested on a charge of illegal possession of a firearm and pointing of a firearm. The serial number of the firearm was filed off. He is expected to appear in court soon.
On 28 July 2019 at about 09:40 AGU were conducting disruptive searches in hotspot areas when they arrested a 21 year old suspect at the corners of Brass and Schultz Streets in Bethelsdorp. The suspect started running when he saw the police. He was found in possession of a 9mm pistol with ammunition which was reported stolen in Kabega Park in August 2005.
On 28 July 2019, at about 09:30, AGU members followed up on information received and arrested 2 suspects in a VW Golf 7 vehicle in Highfield Road. A suspect was found in possession of a 9mm Luger. The firearm was found on the floor of the vehicle. This firearm was reported stolen in Protea Glen in September 2015.
On 29 July 2019 at about 09:15, AGU members received information from the community regarding a person with a firearm allegedly robbing people in William Slammert Drive in Bethelsdorp. A 29 year old suspect was arrested with a .22 pistol and ammunition. He was arrested and detained for illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. The ownership of the firearm is yet to be determined.
All these firearms will be sent to ballistics for analysis.
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