The swift response and dedication displayed by members of the Chatsworth Detectives Tracing Team, Chatsworth Vispol and Malvern CSC were commended by the South African Police Service in the eThekwini District following the arrest of two suspects and the recovery of an illegal firearm and ammunition in Chatsworth recently.
Members of the Chatsworth Detectives Tracing Team acted on information received from Crime Intelligence regarding a wanted suspect linked to a case of attempted murder in Chatsworth.
EThekwini District Communication spokesperson, Captain Carmen Rhynes, said information indicated that the suspect had allegedly once again threatened the complainant with a firearm.
“Police immediately responded to the complaint. Upon arrival, the suspect had already fled the scene. Further information provided by the complainant led members to a gaming shop in Chatsworth, where the complainant positively identified an African male as the same suspect who had previously shot at him and had again pointed a firearm at him,” she said.
According to Rhynes, the suspect attempted to flee when police approached.
“Members acted swiftly and managed to secure the premises and prevent any escape,” she said.
During the operation, a member observed another suspect, an Indian male, allegedly attempting to conceal a black .38 Special Taurus revolver inside a cardboard box placed on top of a gaming machine.
“Additional assistance was requested after a hostile crowd gathered and attempted to interfere with police operations. Backup members responded promptly and the situation was brought under control,” added Rhynes.
Both suspects were arrested and transported to Chatsworth SAPS.
Police also recovered a .38 Special Taurus revolver together with three rounds of live .38 Special ammunition.
The first suspect, aged 29, has been charged with attempted murder, while the second suspect, aged 21, faces charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition.
The suspects are expected to appear in the Chatsworth Magistrate’s Court soon.
EThekwini District Commissioner, Major General Makhosazana Victoria Kheswa, commended the members involved for their vigilance, professionalism and commitment in ensuring that dangerous firearms are removed from the streets and that wanted suspects are brought to justice.
