A 25-year-old man has been arrested by the Anti-Gang Unit for the possession of an unlicensed firearm and a quantity of drugs during a routine patrol in Sophiatown.
The arrest took place on 23 February 2026. According to police reports, members of the unit were conducting normal patrols and stop-and-search operations in the area when they apprehended the suspect. During the search, officers discovered an unlicensed firearm and approximately 400 small packets containing various substances.
The drugs are suspected to be mandrax, khat, and crystal meth. Further investigation into the firearm revealed that it had been reported stolen in 2017, with the case docket registered at the Brooklyn police station.
The suspect appeared before the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court on 24 February 2026. He was formally charged and subsequently remanded in custody. The case is expected to proceed as the investigation continues.