Police in the OR Tambo District have made two significant arrests in separate incidents involving illegal firearms, leading to charges ranging from armed robbery to shoplifting.
In the first case, a 37-year-old male suspect was arrested on 1 June 2025 following a gunpoint robbery that occurred on 28 May in Mboziseni locality, under the Lutshaya Administrative Area within the Hlababomvu policing precinct. The suspect allegedly held a victim at gunpoint and stole personal items. After a swift investigation, Hlababomvu police traced the suspect to his residence and arrested him. He faces charges of armed robbery and illegal possession of a firearm.
In a separate incident, police in Mthatha apprehended a 29-year-old man on 31 May 2025 after he allegedly stole whiskey from a local liquor store. During the arrest, the suspect was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm loaded with two empty cartridges. He has been charged with shoplifting and illegal firearm possession.
Both suspects are expected to appear in their respective magistrates’ courts soon. Police have reiterated their commitment to removing illegal weapons from communities and ensuring public safety across the OR Tambo District.
Members of the public are encouraged to continue reporting suspicious activity as law enforcement intensifies efforts to combat crime in the region.
