Zimbabwean, 21, arrested for sale of explosives

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A 21-year-old Zimbabwean was arrested during an intelligence led operation in Klerksdorp, after operationalisation of information about the sale of explosives.

According to report, the suspect, who tried to flee after becoming aware of the police, was arrested in the bushes near a shopping mall by members of the National Intervention Unit (NIU). 

“Inside his vehicle, police found a variety of explosives, including capped fuses, 30 blasting cartridges and 50m of detonating cord,” North West police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh confirmed.

She added that initial investigations indicated that the explosives are used to commit cash-in-transit heists, explode Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) as well as utilisation in illegal mining activities.

The suspect will appear before the Klerksdorp magistrates’ court on Monday, March 10, on charges of unlawful possession of explosives.

Acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, applauded all members involved in the multidisciplinary operation for their diligence that resulted in bringing the suspect to book.

He further advised the public to report crime including through the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or the MySAPS application anonymously.

Extortion-related incidents can be reported on the Extortion hotline on 080 091 1011.

Meanwhile, a husband and wife, aged 38 and 36, were arrested in Potchefstroom after police discovered hydroponic dagga lab in their yard.

Couple arrested for planting dagga

“A search and seizure warrant was obtained and operationalised on Friday, March 7, by the Drug Task Team, and the team proceeded to an identified address at a small holding in Wilgeboom, Potchefstroom.

“During the search, the team found numerous and different rounds of ammunition and a hydroponic dagga lab, with dagga, dagga plants and dagga cigarettes with a value yet to be determined.

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“Investigation into the matter including the processing of the crime scene by a Forensic team is underway. The couple will appear before the Potchefstroom magistrates’ court on Monday, March 10.

“They are facing charge for unlawful possession of ammunition as well as cultivating and dealing in dagga,” Myburgh stated.