The vigilance of the Monontsha Border Police in the Free State has led to the arrest of a 31-year-old foreign national on charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition during a proactive stop and search operation.
On Sunday, 10 May 2026, at approximately 15:30, officers stationed at the Monontsha Border Post were conducting routine enforcement duties. During the operation, they observed an unknown male attempting to cross the border from South Africa into Lesotho.
The officers intercepted the individual and requested his travel documentation. While the suspect was able to produce a valid passport, the officers proceeded with a physical search of his person and belongings. Upon searching him, a firearm with live ammunition was found concealed on his waist. The suspect failed to produce a valid license to possess the firearm. The 31-year-old foreign national was immediately placed under arrest for illegal possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
The seized firearm will be subjected to ballistic testing to determine if it has been used in the commission of other crimes. The suspect is expected to make his first appearance in the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrate’s Court soon