A joint intelligence-driven operation by the Tactical Response Teams (TRT) from the Alfred Nzo and Joe Gqabi Districts, supported by their Reconnaissance (Reece) unit, led to the arrest of a 34-year-old male suspect for the unlawful possession of two firearms and ammunition.
The search-and-seizure operation took place on Thursday, 26 February, and Friday, 27 February 2026. Acting on a search warrant for illegal firearms and ammunition, the multidisciplinary team proceeded to the suspect’s residence located in Bhukuqweni locality, KwaNyathi Administrative Area.
During the search of the premises, law enforcement officers recovered an R4 assault rifle with its serial number erased. They also seized two magazines loaded with a total of sixty-six (66) live rounds of ammunition. Additionally, a 9mm Norinco pistol, which had an intact serial number, was found along with eight (8) live rounds of ammunition.
A subsequent circulation check on the recovered firearms revealed that the 9mm Norinco pistol was linked to a case of theft registered in Marikana during February 2023.
The suspect was unable to produce a valid licence or legal proof of ownership for the firearms and was consequently arrested at the scene.
He is scheduled to make his first court appearance at the Lusikisiki Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 02 March 2026. He faces charges related to the unlawful possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.