POLOKWANE – Police at Tubatse, under Sekhukhune District, have arrested a suspect for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition following an incident at a liquor outlet in Ga-Motodi Village on Sunday, 21 December 2025.
The arrest was affected at about 17:30 by members of the Tubatse Detective Unit, attached to the Tubatse Tracing Team, while conducting tracing and investigation duties.
According to reports, police received information from intelligence about an individual who was displaying a firearm in front of patrons at a liquor restaurant. Acting on this information, police proceeded to the identified address.
Upon arrival, officers spotted a suspect matching the description provided. Police identified themselves and explained the reason for the approach.The suspect then led police to his vehicle, an Opel Corsa (silver in colour), where he removed a pistol from the vehicle.
When he was questioned about a licence to possess the firearm, the suspect failed to produce and indicated that he did not have a licence. The suspect was immediately arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. The firearm and ammunition were seized.
The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has strongly condemned acts of violence, intimidation, and the illegal possession of firearms at taverns and liquor outlets, stressing that these establishments should not become breeding grounds for criminal activity. Law enforcement will continue to intensify operations aimed at preventing tavern-related attacks and ensuring the safety of community members, especially during the festive season.
Community members are urged to report any information related to illegal firearms or criminal activities to their nearest police station, call the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, or report anonymously via the MySAPS App.
The suspect is expected to appear before the local Magistrate’s Court soon.
Police investigations are continuing.