Two foreign nationals arrested for stolen goods and unlicenced firearm in Bloemfontein.
According to Dailysun, the provincial Anti-Gang Unit in Bloemfontein, Free State, scored a significant breakthrough on Saturday, 12 April, with the arrest of two foreign nationals in separate operations linked to stolen goods and illegal firearm possession.
According to police spokesman, Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli, the arrests were made following intelligence-driven operations in the CBD and Navalsig.
He said at approximately 4pm, members of the Anti-Gang Unit conducted a raid at a shop in the CBD after receiving a tip-off about a 35-year-old foreign national allegedly involved in a string of armed robberies targeting students.
“The suspect was reportedly using a firearm to intimidate victims and steal their cellphones. During the search, police uncovered a stash of cellphones for which the suspect could not produce proof of ownership.
“He was immediately taken into custody and charged with possession of suspected stolen goods and contravening the Immigration Act,” said Kareli.
He said a follow-up investigation led officers to the suspect’s residence in Crownwell Street, Navalsig, where a second foreign national, estimated to be around 25 years old, was found on the premises.
“A search of the room resulted in the discovery of a 9mm pistol with ammunition. The second suspect was arrested on possession of an unlicenced firearm and ammunition charges.
“Separate cases have been registered at the Navalsig Police Station. Investigations are underway to determine the origin of the stolen goods and the firearm, as well as any possible links to other criminal activities,” he said.
Kareli urged members of the public to continue reporting suspicious activities in their communities as part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on crime in the province.
