Police operations in the OR Tambo District led to multiple arrests and the recovery of hijacked vehicles and illegal firearms between 18 and 21 March 2026.
Authorities confirmed the incidents in Qumbu, Port St Johns and Lusikisiki were separate operations carried out by different units.
What happened
In Qumbu on Friday, 20 March 2026, police recovered a Toyota bakkie that had been hijacked and reported stolen in December 2025 at Ngqeleni SAPS.
The vehicle was found abandoned at Mathyhamini locality. The recovery followed collaboration between:
- Mthatha Flying Squad
- KwaBhaca Police
- A private security company
A hijacked Hyundai bakkie was also recovered through a tracking system in a related Qumbu operation.
In a separate incident in Port St Johns on the same day, a 66-year-old man from Dangwane locality was arrested by Highway Patrol members. He was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and one live round of ammunition.
Lusikisiki operation (separate incidents)
In Lusikisiki, Public Order Policing conducted intelligence-driven operations on 18 and 20 March 2026.
These operations led to the arrest of four male suspects in separate, unrelated incidents. They were charged with unlawful possession of prohibited firearms and ammunition.
Why it matters
Police say these operations are part of ongoing efforts to remove illegal firearms and disrupt crime across the OR Tambo District.
Separating the incidents shows coordinated but independent policing efforts targeting different crime patterns across the region.
What you need to know
- Dates: 18–21 March 2026
- Locations: Qumbu, Port St Johns, Lusikisiki
- Lusikisiki arrests were from separate incidents
- Multiple firearms and ammunition were seized
- Hijacked vehicles were recovered in Qumbu
What to do next
Residents are encouraged to:
- Report illegal firearms and suspicious activity
- Share information with police to assist investigations
- Stay updated through official SAPS communication channels
Where to get help
- Visit your nearest SAPS station
- Report anonymously via Crime Stop (contact details not provided)
- Follow SAPS updates online
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