The eight suspects arrested in connection with a cache of illegal firearms appeared in the Gqeberha Magistrates Court on Wednesday.
The accused are: Talent Katsuwa (37), Lazola Mjekula (35), Lilitha Cuthubele (22), Thembani Nephia Magenuka (43), Mkhuseli Dangala (39), Nkululeko Mphathi Jamnda (30), Aviwe Solani (23), and Simbabalwe Singwendu (27).
State prosecutor Melani Hammett said the case was transferred from the Gelvandale Magistrates Court due to security concerns.
The men were arrested during an intelligence-driven operation in Polar Park on Monday, last week.
They face charges of the illegal possession of firearms, illegal possession of ammunition, and possession of a hijacked vehicle.
Also read: Eight in GQ court on weapons charges
Hammett requested a postponement, stating that the SAP 69 documents and the accused profiles were still outstanding.
The case was remanded to 14 February.
On this day, a date for a formal bail application is likely to be set.
Members of Crime Intelligence, the Tactical Response Team, NMB District Crime Combatting Unit, and the Anti-Gang Unit followed up on information received about a group of suspicious men congregating at the Bloemendal Arterial Road in Polar Park.
According to police, observation duties were held before members swooped in on the unsuspecting group.
Police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu, said the eight suspects were apprehended as they tried to flee from police.
Seven firearms including a rifle, an AK 47, a shotgun, and pistols with ammunition were confiscated.
