Massive Cache of Illegal Ammunition and Firearms Seized in Durban

In a significant crackdown on illegal firearms and ammunition, the Ethekwini District Economic Infrastructure Task Team (EITT) achieved a major breakthrough in the Sydenham and Zinkwazi areas of Durban, South Africa. The operation unfolded on consecutive days, leading to the arrest of a suspect and the seizure of a substantial amount of illegal ammunition and firearms.

The operation began when EITT members, acting on intelligence, executed a search warrant at an outbuilding in Sydenham. The suspect escaped, but the search led to the discovery of a hidden AR 556 rifle, 39 rifle rounds, five rifle magazines, 19 pistol rounds, one pistol magazine, and the safe keys strategically placed on a table.

Further investigations revealed additional storage of ammunition at a property located in the Zinkwazi area, within the Kwadakhuza policing sector. Law enforcement swiftly moved to this secondary location where they made another startling discovery. The search yielded a staggering 2562 R5 rounds, 178 AK-47 rounds, 20 SG rounds, 45 28G rounds, 42 Buckshot rounds, one R5 plastic magazine, and two black storage boxes.

A 35-year-old male associated with this cache was apprehended at the Zinkwazi property and is currently detained under charges related to illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

The Ethekwini District Commissioner, Major General Makhosazana Victoria Kheswa, lauded the EITT for their stellar performance in the operation. She highlighted the significance of this seizure, noting its potential impact on reducing the amount of illegally-held firearms and ammunition that could contribute to criminal activity in the region.

This incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding weapon proliferation within South Africa and the attendant risks it poses to safety and security. Local law enforcement agencies remain vigilant and proactive in tracking down illegal arms caches and are committed to upholding the law and ensuring public safety.