A man was arrested in Hammanskraal, Tshwane, on Wednesday, 13 November, after being found in possession of an unlicensed firearm while playing pool at a local tavern. The incident occurred around 4:30 pm in Kanana, where police had received a tip-off about a man carrying a firearm while engaged in a game of snooker. Acting swiftly on the information, officers proceeded to the location to investigate.
Upon arrival, police conducted surveillance and successfully identified the suspect based on the provided description. When approached, the man attempted to flee the scene, but officers quickly apprehended him after a brief chase. During a search, authorities discovered a 9mm handgun with a serial number that had been filed off, along with five rounds of live ammunition concealed on his person.
The man was arrested and charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm. The firearm will undergo ballistic testing to determine if it has been linked to any other criminal activities in the area. Police are continuing their efforts to remove illegal firearms from the community in order to reduce crime and enhance public safety.
Tshwane District Police Commissioner, Major-General Samuel Thine, praised the officers involved for their quick response and commitment to tackling illegal firearms. “This arrest is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of our community by removing dangerous weapons from the streets,” Thine said. The arrest underscores the police’s dedication to maintaining order and preventing criminal activity in the region.