DISCHARGING a firearm in a public place without a lawful reason is illegal.
As a result, three male suspects were arrested by the Joburg Metro cops for shooting during a funeral at Westpark Cemetery on Sunday, 21 March.
Metro police spokesman Xolani Fihla said undercover officers were sent to the cemetery for traffic management and monitoring of the Disaster Management Act regulations.
This happened at the funeral of Hector Vintos Buthelezi.
“There was shooting inside the cemetery. Undercover officers observed and identified the perpetrators.
“When the procession left the cemetery, officers pursued the identified vehicles,” Fihla said.
He said the vehicles were stopped and searched. Three firearms were recovered by officers.
Two of the firearms recovered were unlicensed.
“It was also discovered that the third firearm recovered belongs to the Gauteng Traffic Police.
“The person found in possession of the firearm at that moment did not have valid documentation allowing him to carry the firearm,” Fihla added.
All three suspects were detained at Sophiatown cop shop. A case has been opened for further investigation.
