Picture: Explosives seized by the police/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
14 November 2026 – A man (26) was arrested for the possession of explosives following an intelligence-driven operation conducted at Mapetla Section in Mmakau on 13 November 2026. The arrest follows a tip-off on 12 November 2026, regarding a man allegedly in possession of explosives suspected to have been stolen from a local mine.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said following the information, the police conducted further investigations and verified the suspect’s whereabouts. Myburgh said the information was subsequently shared with the operational team, resulting in a tactical operation at the identified address at approximately 9am on Friday.
“Upon arrival, the police found the suspect at the premises and conducted a search, during which explosives were discovered. The man was immediately arrested.
“The suspect is reportedly an employee at a mine, where he works as a drilling assistant operator. The explosives seized during the operation included 24 cartridges of Magnum Buster Gel and 30 sock tubes with an estimated value of R8 000,” she said.
Myburgh further said the operation was conducted through the collaboration of Brits Crime Intelligence and the Brits Trio Task Team.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, commended the police involved for their swift response to the intelligence received and their continued efforts to prevent the illegal possession and distribution of explosives. Adams emphasised that the illegal possession and trade of explosives pose a serious threat to public safety and cannot be tolerated.
“We further urge members of the community to continue sharing information with the police to assist in preventing crime and ensuring the safety of communities. The suspect is expected to appear before Brits Magistrate’s Court on 16 November 2026, for contraventions of the Explosive Act and theft,” he added
