A high-calibre firearm found by members from SAPS Rietgat photos supplied
By Captain Johan van Dyk
Tshwane District Communication Coordinator
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Tshwane District has welcomed another positive breakthrough in the ongoing fight against crime following the recovery of a high-calibre firearm by members from SAPS Rietgat.
On Tuesday, 04 August 2026, at approximately 15:50, members attached to the Rietgat SAPS Anti-Drug Unit acted swiftly on information received regarding suspicious items reportedly kept at a residence in Block JJ, Soshanguve.
Upon arrival at the identified address, members conducted a search after engaging with the homeowner.
During the search, police recovered an R1 rifle, one magazine, and 30 live rounds of ammunition concealed inside a bag at the back of the property.
The homeowner informed police that she had discovered the suspicious bag while walking into her backyard and immediately reported the matter.
Her responsible actions enabled police to respond promptly and ensure that the firearm and ammunition were safely removed before they could potentially be used in the commission of serious and violent crimes.
No arrests have been made at this stage, and investigations are underway to determine whether the weapon has been used in other criminal activities, the origin of the firearm and identify those responsible for concealing it at the premises.
The District Commissioner of Tshwane, Major-General Samuel Thine, commended the vigilance displayed by the resident and reiterated that the fight against crime cannot be won by law enforcement alone.
The recovery serves as another reminder that community members remain one of the South African Police Service’s most valuable partners in preventing and combating crime.
Members of the public are encouraged to continue reporting suspicious activities, illegal firearms, drugs, wanted suspects, and any other criminal activities within their communities.
Information provided by residents and informers often forms the foundation of successful police operations, leading to the recovery of illegal firearms, the arrest of offenders, and the prevention of violent crime.
SAPS wishes to assure all community members that information received is treated with the strictest confidentiality.
The identity of informers is protected, and every piece of information, no matter how small it may seem, could be the missing link that assists investigators in solving crimes and safeguarding communities.
The South African Police Service in Tshwane District remains committed to working hand-in-hand with communities, Community Police Forums, neighbourhood watches, and other stakeholders to create safer neighbourhoods where criminals have no place to hide.
Anyone with information relating to this incident or any other criminal activity is urged to contact their nearest police station or report anonymously via the Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS App. Every report makes a difference.
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