EASTERN CAPE — What began as a response to aggressive motoring quickly evolved into a major weapons bust following a Port Alfred traffic stop along the R72, where law enforcement discovered hidden firearms with intentionally defaced serial numbers. The swift interception led to the arrest of a 32-year-old suspect and the seizure of unregistered weaponry.
The incident unfolded at approximately 13:30 on Monday, 10 August 2026, when the Ndlambe Traffic Department observed a white Volkswagen Polo traveling dangerously between Kenton-on-Sea and Port Alfred. The motorist was seen blatantly ignoring stop signs and executing reckless overtakes across solid barrier lines. Adding to the suspicious nature of the drive, the vehicle was missing its front registration plate.
Recognizing the immediate threat to public safety, traffic authorities radioed for urgent assistance. The SAPS Port Alfred Crime Prevention Unit (CPU) mobilized rapidly, collaborating with traffic officials to safely corner and halt the vehicle.
The 32-year-old male driver was the sole occupant of the car. After being pulled over, he granted officers consent to search the vehicle. While an initial check of the boot revealed nothing unusual, a meticulous sweep of the cabin’s interior exposed a clever concealment method. Built into a secret drawer directly beneath the driver’s seat, investigators uncovered two pistols and two accompanying magazines.
Crime scene experts from the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC) were deployed to the R72 to document and process the evidence. During forensic processing, it became apparent why the weapons were stashed away: both firearms had their serial numbers deliberately filed off to prevent tracing.
The suspect was promptly taken into custody and formally charged with the illegal possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. Investigators have secured the confiscated pistols in exhibit bags. They are slated for transfer to a forensic science laboratory, where ballistic experts will test the weapons to determine if they are linked to any other regional crimes.
The accused is scheduled to face justice and answer to the weapons charges at the Port Alfred Magistrate’s Court in the coming days.
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