Picture: Firearms seized by the police during the operation/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
27 August 2026 – The police in Mothotlung, supported by Brits Crime Intelligence and the Brits Tactical Response Team (TRT), arrested a suspect (59) and seized several unlicensed firearms and live ammunition during an intelligence-driven operation conducted on 25 August 2026. The operation followed a tip-off regarding individuals allegedly terrorising communities in and around the Mothotlung area and suspected of being in possession of illegal firearms.
The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said the investigation led the police to Extension 2, Mothotlung, where a suspect was located driving a bakkie. Morake said 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. The 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.
“The 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 suspect is facing charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition in terms of the Firearms Control Act, 2000 (Act No. 60 of 2000),” she said.
Morake further said the suspect is expected to appear before the Brits Magistrate’s Court on 27 August 2026.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, commended the police involved in the operation. Adams said the seizure of the unlicensed firearms and ammunition cannot merely be regarded as a job well done, as the ballistic analysis and possible linking of the firearms to other crime scenes is eagerly anticipated.
“We acknowledged the commitment and diligence of SAPS members in ridding communities of illegal firearms and urged the public to continue providing information to the police,” he added.
The Guardian 