| Free State Anti-Gang Unit strikes again: illegal firearm seized and drugs worth R65 000 recovered | |
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| Date Published: | 2026/03/04 |
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Media Statement BLOEMFONTEIN - The Provincial Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) in Bloemfontein continues to demonstrate its effectiveness in dismantling criminal networks. In two separate operations conducted between Monday and Tuesday, members successfully removed a prohibited firearm from the streets and intercepted a significant consignment of narcotics. On Monday, 2 March 2026, at approximately 16:00, operators were conducting routine duties in the Navalsig area. Their attention was drawn to a white Nissan bakkie at a workshop in Lombard Street, matching description of a vehicle allegedly used for drug distribution in the sector. Upon investigation, officers identified the owner as a 35-year-old foreign national. When police requested permission to search the vehicle, the suspect attempted to flee on foot but was swiftly apprehended by the vigilant members. During a thorough search of the vehicle’s cabin, a brown firearm with its serial number filed off was found. The suspect could not produce valid licensing for the weapon and was immediately arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm. In a second successful operation on Tuesday, 3 March 2026, at approximately 20:00, the Anti-Gang Unit executed a Search Warrant at a residence in Kopanong. The operation targeted premises suspected of being a hub for drug trafficking. During the raid, officers searched the house and discovered a large quantity of illicit substances, including Mandrax Tablets and Crystal Meth to the Estimated Street Value of R65,000.00 and a substantial amount of cash suspected to be proceeds of crime. Two suspects, a 30-year-old male and a 19-year-old female, were arrested on charges of dealing in drugs. These successes follow the recent release of the 3rd Quarter Crime Statistics, where the Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Apaphia Modise, specifically lauded the units for their proactive approach to crime prevention. "The removal of an unlicensed firearm and the seizure of drugs worth R65,000 are clear indicators that our specialized units are hitting the ground running in this new quarter. We remain committed to drying up the drug trade and disarming criminals in our province." — concluded the Acting PC
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