Three male suspects aged between 22 and 26 were arrested in Mthatha on Monday, 7 July 2025, for unlawful possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. The operation was carried out by the Tactical Response Team based in the OR Tambo District, supported by Recce members.
The arrests took place in Julukuqu locality, Mqhekezweni Administrative Area, after officers intercepted a Toyota GD6 Double Cab vehicle. A search of the suspects led to the recovery of multiple firearms with erased serial numbers, including a Dashprod rifle with a magazine loaded with ten live rounds, a Brown 9mm pistol with fifteen rounds, and a Norinco Star pistol with four rounds.
The three suspects were taken into custody on the scene and charged accordingly. All firearms will be subjected to ballistic testing to determine whether they were used in the commission of any crimes.
OR Tambo District Commissioner, Major General Norman Modishana, welcomed the arrests and praised the Tactical Team for their swift and effective action. “The recovery of those unlicensed firearms by the dedicated Tactical team has undoubtedly saved innocent lives in the Bityi area,” he said.
The suspects are expected to appear before the Bityi Regional Court soon.
