A 30-year-old man was arrested on Saturday evening, 30 May 2026, for possession of an unlicensed 9mm pistol and ammunition at a tavern in Ntsimbini Location, Lusikisiki. Police have confirmed that legal proceedings will also be initiated against the licensed liquor outlet’s owner or manager.
The arrest occurred at approximately 23:00 when a task team from the OR Tambo District, acting on credible information regarding an individual in possession of an unlicensed firearm, entered the establishment in terms of Section 22 of the Criminal Procedure Act 57 of 1977. Officers identified and searched a patron matching the provided description, discovering the unlicensed 9mm pistol and ammunition in his possession.
The suspect was immediately arrested for contravening the Firearms Control Amendment Act 28 of 2006, specifically for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. The recovered weapon has been secured and will undergo ballistic investigation.
The 30-year-old suspect is scheduled to appear before the Lusikisiki Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 01 June 2026, to face formal charges of unlawful possession of an unlicensed firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition.
OR Tambo District Commissioner, Major General Norman Modishana, emphasized the importance of community cooperation in maintaining public safety. “Public safety requires a two-way partnership, where residents serve as the ‘eyes and ears’ on the ground,” he stated. “Police are going to initiate a legal process against the owner or manager of the tavern for allowing an armed patron into the establishment.”
The South African Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing firearms legislation and holding both individuals and licensed premises accountable for violations that compromise public safety.