War Alert: Five Illegal Foreign Nationals Arrested with Dangerous Weapons Cache

By Admin

Police have arrested five illegal foreign nationals after discovering a cache of high-powered firearms and explosives during a raid that has sparked public concern over rising security threats in the area.

According to police spokesperson Brigadier Motantsi Makhele, officers acted on credible intelligence regarding suspicious activities at a residence. Upon searching the property, they were shocked to find a stockpile of weapons that could have been used for violent operations.

> “We recovered two AK-47 assault rifles, three hand grenades, and dozens of rounds of ammunition. The suspects, all foreign nationals residing in the country illegally, were immediately taken into custody,” said Brigadier Makhele.

The five men, aged between 25 and 40, are facing multiple charges, including possession of unlicensed firearms, illegal possession of explosives, and being in South Africa unlawfully. Police have not ruled out the possibility that the arms could be connected to organized crime or planned violent acts in the province.

Local residents expressed alarm over the discovery. One community member, who preferred to remain anonymous, said the incident exposed the extent to which criminal networks operate in their midst.

> “We hear about crime every day, but knowing that grenades and AK-47s were hidden here is terrifying. These are not weapons for petty crimes — they’re for war,” the resident said.

The case has reignited discussions about border security and the proliferation of illegal firearms in South Africa. Security experts have repeatedly warned that weak border control and increasing organized crime have made it easier for dangerous weapons to enter communities, fueling violent crimes such as robberies, assassinations, and cash-in-transit heists.

Police confirmed that ballistics tests are underway to determine if the seized rifles had been used in prior criminal incidents. The suspects will appear in the Botshabelo Magistrates’ Court later this week.

Brigadier Makhele assured the public that authorities remain steadfast in their commitment to dismantling criminal networks and maintaining community safety.

> “We will not allow our neighborhoods to become war zones. These arrests send a strong warning that South Africa will not tolerate lawlessness,” he emphasized.

The discovery underscores the urgent need for vigilance, public cooperation, and tighter border enforcement to curb the spread of violent crime across the country.