Operation Vala Umgodi Combat Team foils planned armed robbery

Four suspects aged between 25 and 52 were arrested by Combat operators deployed for Operation Vala uMgodi in Virginia for unlawful possession of firearm and conspiracy to commit crime. The team received Intelligence and held observation for three consecutive days around the area identified to be the target of the would be robbers.

Signal was given during Thursday evening, 12 September 2024, that the suspects departed from Klerksdorp headed for Virginia. Two motor vehicles, a Blue Fiat Palio and White Nissan Tiida were spotted near a shopping centre in Verulam Road, Harmony Surburbs in Virginia. Members tactically approached the identified motor vehicles and search was conducted.

A 9mm Norinco pistol with a filed off serial number and a magazine loaded with eight live rounds of ammunition were found and seized. Cellular telephones with WhatsApp messages exchanged by the suspects on the plan to commit crimes were also confiscated.

A case of unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition with an additional charge of conspiracy to commit crime was opened at Virginia Police Station. The motor vehicles, firearm and cellular telephones were booked in Evidence Management System. The four suspects will appear in Virginia Magistrate’s Court soon.