The Hawks have launched an investigation into a Manenberg security company after several of their firearms were confiscated due to non-compliance.
Hawks spokesperson, Captain Philani Nkwalase, says a routine inspection by the National Firearm Task Team (NFTT) at the business on 29 August led to the discovery of various irregularities.
He says eight firearms were confiscated after it was found that the owner was allegedly issuing firearms and permits to security officers while he did not have a valid competency certificate to do so.
“It was found that in some instances some security officers were unfit to carry firearms.
“Consequently, eight firearms and seven registers were confiscated. No arrests were effected pending on-going investigation.”
He says while the owner has not been charged
they have launched an investigation into various aspects of the business.
Hawks spokesperson, Captain Philani Nkwalase. File picture
“They are allowed to operate, without armed security guards. Investigation is on-going on non-compliance.
“In some instances you would find that papers expired and were never renewed.
“The decision to charge and prosecute will be made by the director of public prosecutions after the full investigation has been concluded.”
The Hawks have also secured an eight-year sentence of a Manenberg woman who was found in possession of an R5 rifle and 300 rounds of ammunition she was allegedly hiding for gangsters.
Nkwalase says this followed the arrest of Natasha Oosthuizen, 33, at her home in Manenberg in 2015 after a tip-off.
She pleaded guilty to the possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition and was sentenced to eight years in prison.