By Teboho Moloi
QWAQWA – The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) in the Free State is continuing its investigation into a Maluti-a-Phofung municipal manager’s close protection officer after charges relating to the alleged possession of illegal firearms and ammunition were provisionally withdrawn pending further investigation.
The 51-year old law enforcement officer was arrested on Thursday, 11 June, during the State of the Municipality Address at the Phuthaditjhaba Community Hall.
The operation was carried out by the Bethlehem Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit, supported by the Tactical Response Team (TRT).
According to the Hawks, officers acted on intelligence indicating that the suspect was allegedly in possession of firearms unlawfully. A search reportedly led to the discovery of a firearm and ammunition in his possession.
A subsequent search at his residence uncovered another firearm, a magazine and additional ammunition.
Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Zweli Mohobeleli said investigations revealed that the suspect had previously been declared unfit to possess a firearm by the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court in July 2021.
“Investigations have revealed that in July 2021, the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court declared the suspect unfit to possess a firearm. It was further established that the suspect was allegedly in possession of firearms without the prescribed competency certificate,” said Mohobeleli.
The suspect was expected to face charges relating to the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, as well as contraventions of the Firearms Control Act.
However, the matter was provisionally withdrawn to allow investigators to finalise outstanding aspects of the case.
The arrest has raised concerns given the suspect’s role as a close protection officer attached to a senior municipal official.
Free State Hawks Provincial Head Major General Mokgadi Bokaba commended investigators and the Tactical Response Team for their swift action.
“The commitment demonstrated by our members in responding to information and ensuring compliance with firearm legislation is commendable,” Bokaba said.
The investigation remains ongoing.
