A 42-year-old man was arrested at the Vegie Land informal settlement in Lenasia after being found in possession of an unlicensed pistol with seven live rounds of ammunition, police confirmed. The firearm had its serial numbers filed off.
The arrest is linked to a house robbery that occurred on 8 July 2025 in Lenasia Extension 11, where four armed suspects allegedly robbed a household of four licensed firearms, cash, and jewellery before fleeing the scene.
Following up on intelligence, police traced the suspect on 11 July 2025 and, during their operation, recovered additional firearms, including two rifles, a shotgun, and various ammunition believed to have been stolen during the robbery.
Further investigations led officers to a house in N Section, Thembelihle, on 12 July 2025, where three more firearms, a magazine, and ten rounds of ammunition were recovered. Police said two more suspects remain on the run.
“The swift action by our officers resulted in multiple illegal firearms being removed from circulation. These firearms pose a serious threat to our communities, and we are committed to ensuring those responsible face justice,” said Lieutenant Colonel Mpho Tshetlhane.
The arrested suspect is expected to appear in the Lenasia Magistrate’s Court soon as investigations continue.
Johannesburg District Commissioner Major General Nonhlanhla Kubheka applauded the team’s work, praising their commitment to community safety.
