4 arrested in KZN firearm seizure linked to cash heist
4 arrested in KZN firearm seizure linked to cash heist! Police in KwaZulu-Natal have intensified their operations in the Umzinyathi District, leading to the seizure of five firearms, including three rifles, and the arrest of four suspects aged between 28 and 53.
The operation was led by the Umzinyathi District Task Team in collaboration with the Newcastle Public Order Policing (POP) unit. The crackdown followed intelligence reports linking unlicensed firearms to a recent cash heist in Ekuvukeni.
Arrests and Seizures
Police spokesperson, Constable Siyabonga Nkwanyana, provided details of the successful operation. “Upon arrival at the first identified location within the Wasbank policing precinct, police arrested a suspect found in possession of unlicensed firearms, namely a 9mm pistol and an M4 rifle,” Nkwanyana said.
In addition to the firearms, police recovered a stolen motor vehicle reported missing in Hebron, Gauteng, as well as a quantity of ammunition.
At a second location, officers arrested another suspect and confiscated two rifles—an R5 and an M14—as well as more ammunition.
Explosives and Further Arrests
The operation led officers to a third location where they arrested another suspect in possession of four mine explosives and shotgun ammunition. Due to the dangerous nature of the explosives, the Glencoe K9 Unit was activated for safe handling.
The Newcastle Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) was also called in to conduct further investigations regarding the explosives.
In a separate incident, police from the Greytown Crime Prevention Unit arrested a man found in possession of a .38 special revolver.
All suspects are expected to appear in the Greytown and Glencoe Magistrates’ Courts soon, facing charges related to the illegal possession of firearms, ammunition, and explosives.
Links to Recent Cash Heist
The firearms and explosives seized during the operation are believed to be linked to a recent cash-in-transit heist in Ekuvukeni. The heist had raised concerns in the region about rising criminal activity and the presence of heavily armed gangs.
Police are continuing their investigation to determine the full extent of the suspects’ involvement in the heist and whether there are additional accomplices still at large.
Community Concerns and Police Response
The Umzinyathi District has recently experienced a surge in criminal activity, including violent crimes involving firearms. In response, law enforcement authorities have stepped up operations in the region to combat the proliferation of illegal weapons and prevent further violence.
Constable Nkwanyana emphasized the importance of community cooperation in curbing crime. “We urge the public to continue providing information about criminal activities. Community involvement is essential in our efforts to ensure safety and security in the district,” he said.
Ongoing Investigation
The Hawks, known for handling high-priority cases, are expected to lead further investigations into the matter. Their involvement suggests that authorities view the seizures and arrests as part of a larger criminal network that may be responsible for multiple crimes in the region.
The safe handling of the explosives will also be a critical part of the investigation. Explosives are frequently used in cash-in-transit heists, making the confiscation a significant step in preventing future attacks.
Increased Police Presence
In light of recent events, the police are expected to maintain a heightened presence in the Umzinyathi District. Roadblocks, stop-and-search operations, and additional intelligence-driven raids are likely to be implemented as part of a broader crime-prevention strategy.
Authorities have also promised to continue working closely with local communities to restore trust and improve overall safety in the area.
Conclusion
The seizure of multiple firearms and explosives, as well as the arrest of four suspects, marks a significant breakthrough in the fight against violent crime in KwaZulu-Natal’s Umzinyathi District. The upcoming court appearances and further investigations by the Hawks will likely shed more light on the extent of the suspects’ criminal activities.
As police continue their crackdown, community members are hopeful that the intensified efforts will lead to long-term safety and security in the region.
