Police have seized firearms, ammunition and drugs with an estimated street value of R10 million during a raid on an apartment in Richwood, Bothasig on Sunday.
A 29-year-old man was arrested after Crime Intelligence officers acted on information that an apartment in Silvia Street was allegedly being used by a local gang as a storage facility.
Police spokesperson FC van Wyk said officers conducted surveillance at the apartment before intercepting the suspect as he attempted to leave the complex in a white Mercedes-Benz.
“When members boxed in the vehicle and instructed the suspect to exit, they noticed he was holding a black shopping bag on his lap. After searching him, they found an unlicensed 9mm Taurus pistol in his possession. He was unable to account for the firearm and was also found with a key to the apartment,” Van Wyk said.
During the search of the apartment, officers uncovered a large cache of firearms, ammunition and drugs.
“On the way to the apartment, the suspect informed members that a lot of forensic bags would be needed. Inside, members found several bricks of cocaine wrapped in plastic on the dining room floor, along with suitcases containing various drugs. In the bathroom, officers recovered two 9mm pistols and ecstasy tablets, while four additional firearms, 16 magazines loaded with ammunition and more drugs were found in the bedroom and kitchen cupboards,” Van Wyk said.
In total, police confiscated seven 9mm pistols, 17 magazines, 1,030 rounds of various calibre ammunition, and an assortment of drugs with an estimated street value of R10 million.
The suspect remains in custody and is expected to appear in the Goodwood Magistrate’s Court once formally charged.
The case has been transferred to the Anti-Gang Unit for further investigation.
Photo: VOCfm (Stock)
