A 38-year-old male suspect has been arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition following a robbery incident in the Mhala policing area on Thursday, 31 July 2025.
According to police reports, officers attached to the Ehlanzeni District Highway Patrol were conducting routine patrols in the Bushbuckridge area when they received information about a robbery that had just occurred in Mhala. Authorities were provided with a description of the suspect’s vehicle.
While continuing their patrol, the officers spotted a suspicious vehicle matching the given description. They attempted to stop the vehicle, which eventually came to a halt near Ga Motibidi Trust. As the vehicle stopped, one male suspect exited and immediately opened fire on the police. Officers returned fire in self-defence, prompting the vehicle to speed away, leaving the suspect behind.
Backup was summoned from the Bushbuckridge SAPS, and upon arrival, three Highway Patrol members identified the suspect, who was found sitting on the ground. Upon inspection, police discovered that the suspect had sustained injuries to his upper left body and left buttocks. A firearm loaded with seven live rounds of ammunition was found next to him.
During questioning, the suspect admitted ownership of the firearm but could not produce a valid license. The firearm’s serial number had been filed off, rendering it untraceable. All relevant authorities attended the scene.
The suspect was arrested and charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. The firearm was confiscated, and the suspect was transported under police guard to Mapulaneng Hospital for medical treatment. He is expected to appear before the Bushbuckridge Magistrate’s Court today, 01 August 2025.