A multi-disciplinary team under Operation Shanela and local farm watch members conducted an intelligence-driven and crime prevention operation, concentrating on crime prevention, tracing of wanted suspects and compliance inspections at the weekend.
The operation, conducted from 23 February 2026 to 24 February 2026, within the Ehlazeni District, focusing on Calcutta, Acornhoek and Bushbuckridge, saw members visiting liquor outlets and conducting stop-and-searches as well as patrols at identified places, including Saselani and Dwarsloop in Bushbuckridge.
It was during this operation that a 30-year-old male suspect was arrested for possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. Two 9mm pistols, two magazines and about 16 live rounds were seized.
Further operations led to the recovery of two firearms, with one suspected of being state-issued.
Further information from Crime Intelligence resulted in the team recovering another 9 mm pistol with ammunition.
The two suspects, aged 25 and 30, are expected to appear at the Bushbuckridge and Acornhoek Magistrate’s Courts respectively, on Wednesday.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi commended members for their swift response and effective coordination, emphasising that integrated intelligence-driven operations and collaboration with community structures such as farm patrols remain critical in removing illegal firearms from communities.
“These coordinated efforts enhance operational quality, strengthen cohesion among law enforcement partners, and significantly contribute to proactive policing and safer communities,” said Mkhwanazi. – SAnews.gov.za
