/ 16 July 2013

Military swoop in on security company, confiscate ammunition

In the raid on Monday
In the raid on Monday, the military police reportedly confiscated assault-rifle ammunition allegedly stolen from the army. (Gallo)

In the raid on Monday, the military police reportedly confiscated assault-rifle ammunition allegedly stolen from the army, the Star reported on Tuesday.

It followed the suspension without pay on Sunday of Brigadier Mathapelo Miriam Mangwani, of the Central Firearms Registry, and Brigadier Hlamane Elias Mahlabane, who was in charge of firearms compliance.

According to the newspaper, they allegedly accepted bribes in exchange for issuing gun licences to Dave Sheer Guns.

Spent cartridges and live rounds bearing military stamps were reportedly found during the raid.

It was believed the bullets, which are suitable for R4 rifles, were stolen from the military and allegedly sold to Dave Sheer Guns, which in turn allegedly sold them to SVB.

A former employee of the gun company reportedly alleged in a witness affidavit that SVB had bought stolen military equipment, including ammunition and bullet-proof vests.

The affidavit also contained allegations that Dave Sheer Guns staff allegedly paid the supplier of the military stock amounts of R20 000 to R250 000 in cash or company cheques. – Sapa