Since the night of 21 March 2022, until the early hours of 22 March 2022, police officers deployed in Plessislaer embarked on an intelligence driven operation. Stop and searches and foot patrols were conducted during the operation.
Whilst police were at Imbali, members spotted a vehicle in Mthombothi Road in Unit 1 and intercepted the vehicle. Upon searching the occupants and the vehicle, police recovered a rifle, two pellet guns, a box of pellets and 103 rounds of ammunition. Inside the vehicle, police found a bag containing house breaking implements, handcuffs, jewellery and other items.
The initial investigation conducted by police at the scene revealed that the property was stolen in Howick. Investigations are still ongoing regarding the suspected stolen property. Four suspects were placed under arrest for unlawful possession of firearms, ammunition and possession of stolen property.
The team proceeded to Dambuza where three suspects were found in possession of two revolvers, a pistol as well as three rounds of ammunition. The trio were then placed under arrest for unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
Another suspect was found dealing in dagga at Dambuza during the operation. The suspect was found in possession of packets of dagga as well as R1570-00 in cash. He was placed under arrest for dealing in dagga.
The team also went to Gandaganda area in Plessislaer for a report of a house robbery. The suspect was arrested in the area for robbery after he held up the owner of the house.
All nine suspects aged between 26 and 45 are expected to appear before the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate’s Court.
