Five suspects arrested for taxi violence, firearm misuse

GAUTENG – The JMPD Tactical Response Unit responded to a complaint of taxi violence in Orlando West and Dube, Soweto. Upon arrival at Mncube Drive in Dube, officers were informed by members of the public about five individuals carrying rifles and handguns. These individuals had reportedly intimidated them and brandished their firearms.

The officers proceeded on foot to the reported location and encountered the suspects, who pointed their rifles at the officers. The suspects then fled in a silver-grey Volkswagen Polo sedan. A pursuit ensued, culminating in the interception of the suspects by the JMPD Tactical Response Unit and members of the South African Police Service at the intersection of Mncube Drive and Leselinyana Street.

A search of the vehicle and its occupants resulted in the recovery of nine firearms, including two rifles, one shotgun, and six handguns, along with 152 live rounds of ammunition. The suspects were unable to produce valid licenses or permits for six of the firearms. Three handguns were confirmed to be legally owned. One of the firearms and the two rifles were reportedly owned by a security company but were in the suspects’ possession illegally.

The suspects were subsequently arrested and detained at the Orlando SAPS. They have been charged with firearm pointing, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, and contravention of the Firearms Control Act.