Nine unlicensed firearms and four stolen cars seized after Ekurhuleni tip-off; two suspects arrested

Police recovered nine unlicensed firearms, ammunition and four stolen vehicles after members of the Ekurhuleni Task Team followed information linked to a Kempton Park business robbery, the South African Police Service (Saps) said.

Raid in Ebony Park leads to major seizure and arrest

Saps reported that task team members located the cache in Ebony Park yesterday morning and arrested a 40-year-old male. Officers recovered nine unlicensed firearms, assorted rounds of ammunition, magazines and several number plates.

The recovered firearms included five AK-47 rifles, two 9mm pistols and two revolvers. Police also recovered four vehicles reported to have been stolen: a Mercedes Benz, a BMW and two VW Polos, Saps said.

Saps added that the firearms have been sent for forensic testing to determine any links to other crimes.

Separate arrest in Eldorado Park

In a separate incident, Saps reported the arrest of a 45-year-old male in Eldorado Park for the unlawful possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

Police said the arrest followed information that linked the suspect to multiple business robberies across Gauteng and neighbouring provinces. Officers recovered two 9mm pistols, one black shotgun, three magazines, 31 live rounds of ammunition, one firearm holster and two magazine pouches during a search operation.

The suspect was charged with the unlawful possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition and was expected to appear in court soon, Saps reported.

Investigation and next steps

Saps said the investigation into both incidents remains active. Ballistic examinations will be conducted on the recovered firearms to determine whether they were used in other offences, and additional charges may be added should more evidence emerge.