Major Firearms Smuggling Case Involving Gqeberha Dealer Postponed to Next Year

In a significant development emerging from Gqeberha, the Magistrates Court witnessed Karen Webb and co-accused Francois van Der Merwe standing together for the first time as they face multiple charges under the Firearms Control Act. This case, linked to illegal firearms distribution, has gripped the nation due to its implications on public safety and crime.

Karen Webb, known throughout the local community as the operator of Aquila Arms, was arrested on February 8th as part of a broader police crackdown on how gangsters in Gqeberha’s northern areas, and other provinces, were accessing firearms. Since her arrest, the list of charges against her has expanded substantially. Initially, Webb faced theft charges for ten missing 9mm Glock pistols from her shop's inventory. The charge sheet has since swollen to include heavier accusations such as conspiracy to smuggle firearms, fraud, unlicensed trading, supplying firearms and ammunition illegally, and obstructing justice.

Francois van Der Merwe, arrested in George during September, faces charges including transporting firearms across South Africa without proper permits, unsafe transportation of firearms and ammunition, and unlawful possession of both a firearm and ammunition. It was revealed that Van Der Merwe allegedly transported a staggering total of 658 firearms from Webb’s inventory to another gun repair shop in Sedgefield over just two days in January.

The ongoing police investigation intensified after their initial findings indicated Webb’s involvement in a scheme that potentially fueled local gang activities and crime through firearms distribution. This case underlines ongoing concerns regarding firearm control and public safety in South Africa, especially as the firearms involved are capable of significantly elevating local crime rates.

Authorities are yet to decide whether to move this high-profile case to the regional court or to proceed in the city’s high court, reflecting the severity and implications of the charges. Meanwhile, Van Der Merwe has been granted bail, while Webb remains incarcerated pending trial, which has now been postponed until 28 January next year.