Maryland State Police said Thursday that a Silver Spring man was arrested on gun charges following a traffic stop on Piney Branch Road.
20-year-old Robel Habtu is charged with possession of a stolen firearm, illegal possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle, illegal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of ammunition, and possession of a firearm while underage.
At approximately 3:45 p.m. on Wednesday, troopers from the Rockville Barrack stopped a vehicle on Piney Branch Road south of Ray Drive. The troopers observed suspected illegal drugs in the vehicle. A probable cause search was conducted, which led to the discovery of a handgun that had been reported stolen in South Carolina, according to a press release.
Habtu was transported to the Montgomery County Detention Center. He was released after posting a $7,500 bond.
Maryland State Police graphic