FREE STATE – A 59-year-old man from Manyatseng, near Ladybrand, has been arrested and charged with possession of commercial explosives following a domestic violence complaint that led to the discovery of dangerous materials concealed inside a residence.
According to a South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson, the incident unfolded on Tuesday, 15 September 2026, when local police responded to a domestic violence complaint involving an uncle and his niece. While attending to the scene, officers discovered commercial explosives hidden inside a plastic bag within the house.
To mitigate the immediate danger, police swiftly summoned the Bethlehem Explosive Unit. Specialized personnel safely secured and seized the hazardous materials. Authorities noted that the explosives are believed to have originated from the mining industry, as the suspect was previously employed in the mining sector.
The suspect has been formally arrested and charged with possession of explosives. He is scheduled to make his first appearance before the Ladybrand Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 17 September 2026.
In light of the incident, a police spokesperson issued a critical safety warning, urging community members to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious explosives or dangerous materials to the nearest police station.
The public is strongly advised not to touch, move, open, or handle any suspected explosives. Exposure to heat, friction, impact, or other sources of ignition could trigger a dangerous and potentially fatal explosion.
Authorities emphasized that anyone who discovers suspected explosives should immediately move away from the area, ensure that other people keep a safe distance, and contact the police without delay. The area must be left completely undisturbed until it can be properly assessed and secured by trained law enforcement personnel.
