Suspected gang member arrested with rifles and explosives

A suspected gang that has been terrorising Limpopo was destabilised after the arrest of one member following a high-speed this week.

SAPS MEMBERS POUNCE ON SUSPECTED GANG IN LIMPOPO

The suspected gang member believed to be part of a gang responsible for serious and violent crimes in and around Maake policing precinct outside Tzaneen, was nabbed in possession of two rifles and explosives amongst items that were recovered during the arrest.

“Preliminary investigation indicates that SAPS members were conducting patrol duties when they noticed a suspicious-looking Toyota bakkie next to a local filling station. As they approached the vehicle, the suspects drove off at a high speed and the members gave chase and the suspects were subsequently cornered next to Julesburg village where two suspects managed to evade arrest by fleeing on foot,” said Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the police spokesperson.

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THE LIST OF EXPLOSIVES AND RIFLES RECOVERED

One suspect was apprehended and upon searching the vehicle, the following items were recovered:

• Two Riffles and 48 ammunition,
• two magazines,
• one black bag,
• two pair hand-woven,
• three balaclavas, one black Nokia,
• one crowbar,
• one hammer,
• four Carmen capped fuses,
• two lengths of detonating cord,
• two super 90 blasting cartridges,
• three improvised (ammonium nitrate) Carmen capped fuses,
• two lengths of detonating cord,
• two super 90 blasting cartridges,
• three improvised(ammonium nitrate)

“Explosives and Forensics units were immediately called to process the crime scene and the explosives and firearms were confiscated as exhibits. The getaway vehicle was also confiscated for further investigation.”

Colonel Ledwaba

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SUSPECT REMANDED IN CUSTODY AFTER BRIEF APPEARANCE

The arrested suspect, Phuthuthu Mmola (33) appeared before the Lenyenye Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 28 April 2023 facing charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition and possession of illegal explosives. He was remanded in custody until next week Friday, 5 May 2023 while the police investigation continues.

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Meanwhile, Colonel Ledwaba further stated that police are still searching for the remaining suspects and appeal to anyone with information that can lead to their apprehension to contact the investigating officer Sergeant Maake on 079 696 4370 or Crime Stop number 0860010111.

This arrest has been hailed by the Acting Provincial Commissioner of police in Limpopo Major General Jan Scheepers.

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