The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Tactical Response Unit has arrested a high-profile suspect allegedly linked to recent gang-related violence in Westbury, including a shooting that left four people dead.
The suspect was arrested in Lenasia South Extension 4 on Tuesday afternoon following information received by officers during high-visibility patrols.
According to the JMPD, officers acted on intelligence linking the man to the deadly Westbury shootings over the past weekend.
During the arrest, the suspect was allegedly found in possession of an illegal revolver with its serial number filed off.
The JMPD says the suspect then led officers to a second location in the same street, where they recovered a Tommy Gun, a submachine gun, and live ammunition.
The suspect was detained at the Lenasia South SAPS station and faces charges relating to the possession of unlicensed firearms and prohibited weapons.
JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla says the operation demonstrates the department’s commitment to removing illegal firearms and dangerous weapons from communities.
“This operation demonstrates the commitment of our officers to ensuring that illegal firearms and dangerous weapons are removed from our communities. The swift action by the Tactical Response Unit resulted in the arrest of a key suspect and the seizure of firearms and ammunition that could have been used in further acts of violence.”
Fihla also commended the officers involved for their swift response and urged members of the public to continue providing information about illegal firearms and suspicious activities.
The JMPD also thanked private security company Tracksecure Security for assisting during the operation.
Investigations are continuing into the suspect’s alleged involvement in the deadly Westbury shootings.
