Zimbabwean national arrested with illegal firearm and stolen copper in Groblersdal

A 39-year-old Zimbabwean national has been arrested in Masakaneng village, near Groblersdal, for allegedly possessing an illegal firearm, ammunition and suspected stolen copper cables.

Members of the Sekhukhune District Tactical Response and Investigation Team, together with private security personnel, arrested the suspect on Thursday, 1 October 2026.

Police said the team was following information about a white Renault vehicle allegedly being used to steal and transport copper cables in the Sekhukhune District.

The vehicle was spotted in Masakaneng village and stopped for a search. Police found a firearm, ammunition and copper cables in the boot.

The driver was unable to produce a valid firearm licence, ammunition licence or documentation required to possess second-hand goods under the Second-Hand Goods Act.

He was arrested and charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm, possession of ammunition and possession of suspected stolen copper cables.

The suspect is expected to appear before the Groblersdal Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 5 October 2026. Police investigations are continuing.