The Gauteng Provincial Illegal Mining Stabilisation Team has arrested three suspects and seized illegal firearms during an early-morning operation in Bekkersdal on the West Rand.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) says the team intercepted a maroon Toyota Corolla sedan at around midnight on Sunday, 8 February 2026, while patrolling the Sporong informal settlement and surrounding Bekkersdal areas.
Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko says officers stopped the vehicle after noticing suspicious movement in the area.
“Upon searching the vehicle, members discovered three AK-47 rifles wrapped in blankets in the boot. One of the suspects was also found in possession of ammunition,” Sibeko said.
The three occupants of the vehicle were immediately arrested and charged with possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
Sibeko says the suspects are expected to appear in court soon, while investigations continue.
“We are continuing with investigations to establish where the firearms came from and whether they are linked to other criminal activities, including illegal mining,” she added.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by the Gauteng Provincial Illegal Mining Stabilisation Team to combat illegal mining and associated violent crime across the province.
