Takedown operation leads to arrest of suspect for possession of unlicensed firearms, ammunition and attempted murder

As part of efforts to eradicate illegal firearms, a 31-year-old suspect will be appearing before the Orkney Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 23 June 2025, to face charges of possession of unlicensed firearms, unlawful possession of ammunition, two counts of attempted murder and contravention of the Dangerous Weapons Act. The suspect, who is from Lesotho, will face an additional charge of contravention of the Immigration Act.

The arrest was made by Kanana Detectives and Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Visible Policing members during a takedown operation at around 02:30 on Friday, 20 June 2025, at Kanana Extension 13 near Orkney. The suspect was found in possession of a pistol, a revolver, a gas pistol and several different rounds of ammunition.

Reports suggest that the suspect allegedly shot and critically injured two men, aged 25 and 27, following an altercation between him and the victims on Saturday evening, 14 June 2025.

Investigations into the matter continue.

The Acting Provincial Police Commissioner of the North West, Major General Patrick Asaneng said: “The South African Police Service (SAPS) is imploring the communities of Kanana, Khuma and Jouberton including the established Community Policing Forums and Community Safety Forums not to harbour illegal armed criminals who are robbing, killing and maiming them, but to notify the police immediately so that they can be arrested.”