Duo busted with illegal firearms in Welkom

Two suspects are set to appear in court on Thursday, 14 April after found in possession of illegal firearms and ammunition in their house, Welkom.

This follows a joint operation by the Thabong Police’s Task Team, Welkom K9 unit and Thabong detective services that was led by Mzivukile Gushana, who made a shocking discovery of two illegal firearms and ammunition on evening of Wednesday, 6 April.

According to Lejweleputswa spokesperson, captain Stephen Thakeng, the police found two suspects believed to be a couple in a shack with illegal fire arms.

“Upon arrival, they found a man and a woman sitting in the shack house. Membere requested permission to search premises and was granted,” said Thakeng.

“When they were busy with the search, they found two illegal firearms and live ammunition hidden under mattress.

“A 29-year-old, who is the owner and a 41-year-old man who is a foreigner were both arrested for possession of illegal firearms and ammunition,” added Thakeng.

The suspects, Moshoeshoe Mpongoa and Lerato Latja appeared before the Welkom Magistrate Court on Thursday, 7, April but their case was postponed to next week Thursday, 14 April.

Meanwhile, the suspects are remanded in custody.

The Provincial Commissioner of the Free State, Lt Gen Baile Motswenyane appreciated Thabong residents with the good work of sharing such information to the police officers.

“We regard this as a breakthrough because these firearms might be used to commit serious crimes,” said Molale.

“I’m very proud to have the caliber of these joint team work that acted swiftly upon receiving information and wished them well in their Police career,” she added.

She concluded by saying residents are reporting crime and criminals have nowhere to hide themselves.