7 suspects arrested in Durban over alleged car theft syndicate

Officers carrying out a joint operation caught four men in a suspected stolen vehicle on the Durban beachfront on Sunday. 

While searching the vehicle - they found car breaking tools and vehicle computer boxes. The engine had also been tampered with. 

Police spokesperson, Nqobile Gwala says the investigation led the officers to a house in Klaarwater.

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"Upon arrival at the scene, a 45-year-old male was found busy grinding and re-stamping a vehicle. It is alleged that the vehicle was stolen this month in the Hillcrest area. 

"A total of 38 rounds of ammunition hidden under the mattress as well as cash of R260,000-00 was seized by the police."

Two other suspects were arrested when they tried to flee. 

At the house - nine other vehicles were recovered - one of which was stolen in Durban Central this month. 

Gwala says they also found a hand grenade hidden in a laundry basket - along with two police uniforms, registration documents, number plates and foreign currency notes - among other items. 

The suspects, aged between 30 and 45, are facing charges including possession of explosives and possession of stolen property.