Lusikisiki tavern patron arrested with unlicensed firearm, tavern faces scrutiny

A 30-year-old man is expected to appear in the Lusikisiki Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 1 June 2026, after he was arrested for allegedly possessing an unlicensed firearm and ammunition at a tavern in Ntsimbini Location.

According to police, members of an OR Tambo District task team were conducting patrols in the area at about 23:00 on Saturday, 30 May 2026, when they received information about a man believed to be carrying an unlicensed firearm inside a local tavern.

Police said officers proceeded to the identified liquor outlet and entered the premises in terms of Section 22 of the Criminal Procedure Act.

The officers then approached a patron who matched the description they had received.

During a search, police allegedly discovered an unlicensed 9mm pistol and ammunition in the man’s possession.

The suspect was immediately arrested and charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition in contravention of the Firearms Control Act.

Police confirmed that the firearm has been seized and will undergo ballistic testing as part of the investigation.

The suspect is expected to make his first court appearance in the Lusikisiki Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

In addition to the criminal case against the suspect, police say they intend taking legal action against the liquor outlet.

OR Tambo District Commissioner Major General Norman Modishana said community information played a crucial role in the arrest.

“Public safety requires a two-way partnership, where residents serve as the ‘eyes and ears’ on the ground. Police are going to initiate a legal process against the owner or manager of the tavern for allowing an armed patron into the establishment,” he said.

Police have not yet disclosed what specific action may be taken against the tavern owner or manager.

The investigation is continuing.