NELSPRUIT – Nine men aged between 19 and 34 appeared at the Low’s Creek Periodical Court today, for alleged possession of firearms and ammunition.

Their appearance follows after they were arrested yesterday, 03 June 2019, at Matsulu after they were involved in a bitter gun battle with another group from the same area. The two groups, one believed to be led by a former Barberton Councillor and Lawyer, were fighting for no known reason as yet.

The nine are reported to have gotten into a double cab bakkie and fled from the scene when they were spotted by the police on the N4 national road. A chase then ensued after police tried to stop them but failed. Police eventually managed to corner and arrest them. Their vehicle was searched and a 9mm Z88 firearm with the serial number filed off as well as a single round of ammunition were found.

The suspects were remanded in custody and will appear again at the Barberton Magistrate’s Court tomorrow, 05 June 2019 for bail application.

Source: South African Police Service