Seven suspects for conspiracy to commit crimes and possession of unlicensed firearms

Operation Vala Umgodi Combat team received and operationalised intelligence on a planned armed robbery at an address alleged to keep gold and cash. Observation and way-lay duties were executed and the two identified motor vehicles; a Black Mercedes Benz C-Class and a Black Jeep Cherokee were spotted moving in Virginia town just after sunset. The members tactically accosted the suspected vehicles and the search was conducted.

Three firearms were found hidden in a compartment beneath the front passenger seat of the Jeep Cherokee. All occupants of the vehicles didn’t have firearm licenses. Five magazines and 45 live rounds of ammunition were seized. The seven suspects, aged between 44 and 56, were then arrested for Conspiracy to commit crime and Possession of unlicensed firearms. A case docket was opened at Virginia Police Station.

Collaboration to eradicate Illicit mining activities between South African Police Service, Private Security Companies, other role players and stakeholders continues. A total of nine suspects, aged between 22 and 44, were arrested for trespassing on mine premises, attempted theft of Government minerals and precious metals and contravention of the Immigration Act at Kopanong Mine.

All suspects will appear before various Courts soon.