Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Mpumalanga

NELSPRUIT - A 24-year-old suspect is set to appear in the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court on 16 April 2026 for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, following an incident in Breyten.

Police acting on a tip-off about a gunshot at Wittekrans Farm, responded swiftly and found the suspect in possession of a Musgrave self-loading rifle, with one live round and one spent cartridge. The suspect failed to provide proof of ownership and was immediately arrested.

Further investigation revealed that the registered owner of the firearm had passed away in 2020. Investigations are ongoing.

Members of the public are urged to report cases where firearm owners have passed away, in line with the Firearms Control Act.

Ends

Enquiries:
Sergeant Thulisile Magagula
082 565 7131

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