TWO NABBED FOR GUN AND DRUGS

Police in the Eastern Cape have successfully removed an illegal firearm and a quantity of drugs from the streets of Mthatha following two separate operations on Friday.

DAWN RAID

Members of the OR Tambo Stock Theft Prevention Task Team acted on intelligence regarding an illegal firearm in the Lwandlana locality, Ngcengane A/A. At approximately 05:30 on Friday morning, officers pounced on a homestead where they conducted a search.

During the operation, police recovered a firearm with an intact serial number and one live round of ammunition. A 27-year-old male suspect was arrested on the spot after he failed to produce a valid license for the weapon. Preliminary investigations revealed the firearm had not been reported as lost or stolen.

RECKLESS DRIVING

Later that afternoon, around 12:30, Mthatha Central Crime Prevention members were conducting visibility patrols in the Highbury locality. They spotted a white VW Polo Vivo being driven recklessly and successfully pulled the vehicle over.

DRUG DISCOVERY

Upon searching the 39-year-old driver and the vehicle, officers discovered a quantity of tik (crystal meth). Police also found an undisclosed amount of cash, which is believed to be the proceeds of drug sales. The driver was immediately taken into custody.

COURT APPEARANCE

The two suspects, aged 27 and 39, are facing various charges, including the unlawful possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, as well as possession and dealing in drugs. Both men are expected to appear in the Mthatha Magistrates Court on Monday, 26 January 2026.