The illicit mining multi-disciplinary Operation Vala Umgodi team operationalised intelligence driven information and pounced on identified suspected drug premises on Monday, 13 May 2024 in Hartswater.
During the execution of the operation, suspected drugs with an estimated street value of R 9000 was confiscated.
The drugs as well as money believed to be the proceeds of crime, were confiscated at Hartswater taxi rank.
Seven (7) suspects between the ages of 29 and 32 years old were arrested for possession of drugs.
The team followed up on information at a business premises in Hartswater regarding the possession of an illegal firearm. The premises were searched and the police recovered a firearm with ammunition. The firearm was circulated and found to belong to a person who passed away in 2007 and the firearm was never reported stolen.
Subsequently, a 33 year old Ethiopian male was arrested for possession of an illegal firearm and ammunition.
Two (2) undocumented Malawian males, aged 23 and 24 years old were also arrested.
All arrested suspects are expected to appear in the Hartswater Magistrates Court soon.
The Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola commended community members for their continues support in providing information to the police that led to the arrests, confiscation, and recovery of dangerous weapons. She ensured the community that the combating of illicit mining related activities will continue unabated.
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