New KwaBhaca police commander targets illegal guns and stock theft

A new station commander has officially taken over at KwaBhaca (Mount Frere) police station, with a focus on tackling serious crimes affecting local communities.

Colonel Arnold Freemantle was formally introduced during a Municipal Council meeting on 29 April 2026, where he also met the newly elected Community Policing Forum (CPF). He began his duties earlier, on 1 April 2026.

During the introduction, Freemantle committed to working closely with SAPS members to fight crime in the area. He highlighted illegal firearms and livestock theft as key priorities, alongside other ongoing criminal activities affecting residents.

He also stressed that policing cannot succeed without community involvement. Residents were encouraged to work with police by reporting crimes and sharing information from their areas.

Umzimvubu Municipality welcomed his appointment, expressing hope that his leadership would strengthen cooperation between police and the community and improve overall safety.

For many rural communities in the Eastern Cape, crimes such as stock theft and illegal firearms have a direct impact on livelihoods and daily life. Livestock theft, in particular, remains a major concern for households that depend on animals for income and food security.

Freemantle’s appointment comes at a time when there are growing calls for more visible policing and stronger local safety structures in KwaBhaca. His emphasis on rebuilding trust and collaboration could play a key role in how crime is addressed going forward.

It is not yet clear what specific strategies or operations will be introduced under his leadership. This has not been confirmed.

Residents are expected to engage more through CPF structures and community meetings as part of efforts to improve safety in the area.

We will update this story as more details emerge on policing plans and crime interventions in KwaBhaca.