EASTERN CAPE — A 26-year-old Lesotho national, Thabang Malau, has been arrested in Sterkspruit following an intelligence-led police operation targeting unlicensed firearm possession and suspected robberies.
Acting on information regarding a male allegedly in possession of an illegal weapon and involved in robberies at foreign national-owned shops, members of the SAPS Sterkspruit apprehended the suspect on 28 October 2026 in Mokhesi village.
During a subsequent search of the premises, police recovered a 9mm “Blow” firearm, one magazine, eight blank ammunition rounds, cigarettes, hookah pipe flavours, and a speed point charger. Following the recovery of the items, Malau was formally charged with possession of suspected stolen property, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and possession of unlicensed ammunition.
The suspect made his first appearance before the Sterkspruit Magistrate’s Court on 02 November 2026. The case was officially postponed, and Malau was remanded in custody. Authorities have confirmed that the recovered 9mm firearm will undergo ballistic testing to determine if it can be linked to other criminal offenses.
Major General Lindelwa Vellem, the District Commissioner of Joe Gqabi, commended the investigating members for their vigilance and swift response to the intelligence.
“This arrest and the recovery of the firearm demonstrate our commitment to removing illegal firearms from our communities and ensuring that those who terrorise residents face the full might of the law,” Major General Vellem stated. She added that the police will continue working collaboratively with local communities to ensure safety and security for all residents.
