The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the North West, through Mothotlung police, supported by Brits Crime Intelligence and the Brits Tactical Response Team (TRT), arrested a 59-year-old suspect and seized several unlicensed firearms and live ammunition during an intelligence-driven operation conducted on Tuesday, 25 August 2026.
The operation followed information received regarding individuals allegedly terrorising communities in and around the Mothotlung area and suspected of being in possession of illegal firearms.
The investigation led police to Extension 2, Mothotlung, where a suspect was located driving a bakkie. The vehicle was stopped and searched, resulting in the discovery of a 9mm CZ pistol and 15 rounds of live ammunition. The suspect could not produce a valid licence for the firearm and was immediately arrested.
Police then proceeded to the suspect’s residential address in Mothotlung, where a further search resulted in the seizure of two pistols, one rifle, one shotgun and various rounds of live ammunition, including rifle and handgun ammunition.
Police are conducting further investigations to establish the ownership of the firearms and ammunition and to determine whether they may be linked to other criminal activities.
The 59-year-old suspect is facing charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition in terms of the Firearms Control Act, 2000 (Act No. 60 of 2000). He remains in police custody and is expected to appear before the Brits Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 27 August 2026.
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