POTCHEFSTROOM: Jouberton police in co-operation with the National Intervention Unit (NIU), Air Wing and Public Order Policing (POP) held an disruptive operation at a guest house in Extention 14, Jouberton, yesterday at about 16:00, leading to the arrest of 40 suspects between the ages of 18-40, all believed to be members of different gangs in the area.
Leading up to the operation, two police officers on patrol allegedly noticed that a gathering was taking place at the guest house and they were also threatened to leave the area.
During the operation three firearms with ammunition were confiscated as well as two petrol bombs and numerous dangerous weapons like panga’s and knives.
All 40 suspects are expected to appear before the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 5 March 2021, on various charges, ranging from conspiracy to commit crime to malicious damage to property.
On Tuesday, 2 March 2021, two more suspects were arrested by police for being in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition at about 15:30. It is alleged that police members on patrol stopped a Chevrolet Bakkie with three occupants, they fled from the scene, but police apprehended two suspects. Upon searching the bakkie, firearm with ammunition, petrol bomb, petrol and stones were discovered. The two suspects are appearing before the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court today.
On the same day, in another unrelated incident, another man was arrested after he was recognised at the police station for participating in the attack on Jouberton police the previous day. He was arrested for charges of attempted robbery and assault. He will also appear before the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court today.
The situation in Jouberton is currently calm and investigation continues.
The Provincial Commissioner congratulated the police members involved for working around the clock to ensure that the perpetrators are put behind bars. He once more warned that acts of lawlessness and undermining the authority of the State will not be tolerated. Complaints must always be raised in an acceptable manner and within the ambit of the law.
Source: South African Police Service