A 21-year-old man from Browns Farm was arrested at his residence on Friday morning following a multi-day investigation into allegations of extortion in the Philippi area.
The suspect, who had been wanted by police for several days, was apprehended during an intelligence-driven operation conducted by members of various units operating under the Lockdown III initiative.
According to police reports, the investigation began on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, when members received information that the suspect was demanding a protection fee from a hair salon in Philippi. Upon arriving at the scene, officers were informed by the victim that the money had already been paid and the suspect had left the area.
The intelligence team continued their probe and successfully traced the suspect’s address on Thursday, 12 March 2026.
On Friday, 13 March 2026, members of the operation descended on the home located in Nobanda Street, Woody Bay, Browns Farm. Upon encountering the officers, the 21-year-old suspect cooperated and directed them to where he had hidden a firearm.
Police recovered a silver modified Retay 84 FS pistol, along with seven rounds of ammunition. The suspect was subsequently arrested for possession of a prohibited firearm.
He is expected to make his first appearance before the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 16 March 2026.
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