The South African Police Service (SAPS) arrested a 55-year-old male suspect for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition following an alleged quarrel in Sonwabile Township on Sunday, 08 February 2026.
Police responded to information regarding a dispute between individuals at approximately 12:25. Upon arrival at the scene, it was established that one of the individuals had fled to a nearby residence after being chased by the suspect.
It is alleged that during the quarrel, the suspect assaulted the victim with a firearm. The firearm was allegedly discharged during the altercation and fell to the ground. The victim then picked up the firearm and ran to the nearby residence for safety.
Upon the arrival of SAPS members, a 9mm Norinco firearm and ammunition were confiscated. Further investigations revealed that the suspect was unable to produce a valid licence for the firearm, which led to his arrest.
The suspect appeared before the Nqanqarhu Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 09 February 2026, on charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, as well as an additional charge of unlawful discharge of a firearm in a municipal area. He was remanded in custody and will appear in court again on Thursday, 12 February 2026.
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