Mangaung Metro Crime Combating Task Team recovers firearm and ammunition during raid

Mangaung Metro Crime Combating Task Team recovers firearm and ammunition during raid

November 7, 2025 • News

BLOEMFONTEIN – Mangaung Metro Crime Combating Task Team arrested a 45-year-old male for possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition during intelligence-driven operation as part of Safer Festive Season actions. Crime Intelligence Gatherers were tasked to trace suspects of burglary that occurred at a bottle in Re-a-hola Complex in Botshabelo. The suspects made an attempt to bomb a drop-safe with explosives without success, with one getting injured in the process. The police used security camera footage to identify the suspects.

The first suspect was spotted walking along the road in J-Section Botshabelo. The team reacted swiftly resulting in his arrest. The home of the 55-year-old suspect was searched, and evidence was recovered. The second suspect was traced in F-Section, and upon searching his residential place, the police found a .22mm Caliber Rifle, live .22mm Hirtenberger ammunition (74), thirteen 12 gauge (green) ammunition, twenty-nine 12 gauge (red) ammunition, and cleaning rods.

The two suspects were then arrested for Burglary [Business] that occurred at Re-a-hola Complex. A case docket of Possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition was also opened, and the 45-year-old suspect was charged. Both suspects will appear in Botshabelo Magistrate’s Court soon.

Mangaung Metro Crime Combating Task Team recovers firearm and ammunition during raidhttps://t.co/0E6f1VfBqZ #ArriveAlive #Crime @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/2rAHQRBwQD

— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) November 7, 2025