An intelligence-driven operation led to the arrest of a man who was in possession of rounds of live ammunition intended for sale on the black market in the Springfield area of Durban
Durban Metro Police spokesperson Colonel Boysie Zungu said in statement Sunday that crime intelligence received information about a large quantity of ammunition intended for sale on the black market in the Springfield area.
Zungu said the Durban Metro Police Service Drug Team, along with other role-players, formulated a strategic plan to intercept the suspect.
He said members were given a description of the suspect and vehicle and positioned themselves to cover all entry and exit points.
“After an hour, the suspect’s vehicle was spotted,” said Zungu.
He said the Metro Police Drug Team boxed in the suspect, preventing any chance of escape.
“The suspect…was found with 1,500 rounds of 9mm live ammunition. He admitted to being at the location to sell the ammunition, though the buyer did not show. Evidence linked the suspect to gang-related activities in KZN,” said Zungu.
The suspect was arrested and detained at the Sydenham SAPS station, said Zungu.
“Seized items included 1,500 rounds of 9mm live ammunition and one Samsung cellphone, all booked into Sydenham SAPS,” said Zungu.
According to Zungu, the operation was successfully completed with no casualties.
“Vital information and locations have been withheld due to a pending investigation,” he added.
Last month, ‘The Mercury’s’ sister publication the ‘Daily News’ reported that a man was arrested inside an informal settlement behind the Chatsworth SAPS training college with drugs, an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
In another incident a week prior, KZN police conducted a multidisciplinary operation in the eNtshele area of Ezakheni, located approximately 20km east of Ladysmith, where four wanted suspects were found in possession of a rifle, two pistols, a revolver and ammunition.
The Mercury