Crime

Two Suspects Arrested in Pretoria After Recovery of Stolen SANDF R4 Rifles

PrimeTime News Desk Published 8 June 2026

5 min read

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Pretoria – South African Police Service officers, working in collaboration with the South African National Defence Force, arrested two suspects on Saturday at the Mooiplaas Informal Settlement in Erasmia, following the recovery of military firearms allegedly stolen from a SANDF facility earlier this year.

The intelligence-driven operation targeted information about firearms taken during a burglary at a military facility. During the raid, authorities recovered two R4 rifles along with ammunition, a replica firearm, and a traffic officer’s uniform.

The burglary at the SANDF facility, specifically linked to Tek Base in the Lyttelton Military Base area of Thaba Tshwane, Pretoria, was discovered around 27 April. Suspects gained access by cutting through the perimeter fence and forcibly opening a burglar door to a storeroom. Initial findings pointed to the theft of three R4 assault rifles and a grenade launcher.

The joint operation successfully located and seized two of the R4 rifles with associated ammunition. The replica firearm and traffic officer’s uniform were also taken into possession as part of the evidence.

The two suspects, whose identities have not been publicly released, now face several charges. These include possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, possession of a dangerous weapon, possession of government property, and contravention of immigration legislation. They are expected to appear in court soon.

Investigations remain ongoing. Police are examining how the suspects came into possession of the items and probing potential links to other criminal activities. The recovery is viewed as a notable step in addressing the circulation of military-grade weapons that could otherwise contribute to violent crime.

This incident highlights previous security concerns at SANDF bases. Historical records show multiple thefts from facilities like Tek Base, including a significant 2019 case involving 18 R4 rifles and pistols that was determined to be an inside job, with most items later recovered. Broader statistics indicate ongoing challenges with lost or stolen SANDF weapons over recent years.

The R4 rifle is a standard-issue assault rifle used by South African forces, derived from the Israeli Galil design and chambered primarily in 5.56mm. Its recovery alongside other items underscores the potential risks when such weapons enter unregulated circulation. Authorities have emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation in tracing and securing these items.

As the probe continues, SAPS and SANDF have not released further details on the suspects’ backgrounds or additional recoveries beyond what was announced. The focus remains on thorough investigation to determine any broader networks involved in the original burglary or subsequent handling of the stolen property.

This operation forms part of wider efforts to remove illegal firearms from communities in Gauteng and across the country. No injuries were reported during the operation, and the suspects were taken into custody without incident according to available statements.

Further updates are anticipated as the case proceeds through the judicial system and additional investigative leads are pursued.

Tragic Vehicle Plunge into Crocodile River Claims Two Lives Near Nelspruit, Search Underway for Possible Third Victim

In the early morning hours of Sunday, 7 June 2026, a white SUV plunged into the Crocodile River near Kamagugu in Nelspruit, also known as Mbombela, in Mpumalanga Province. The incident resulted in the deaths of at least two people. The South African Police Service Search and Rescue Team responded to the scene and recovered the bodies of a 20-year-old male and a female estimated to be between 18 and 23 years old.

The vehicle was travelling from the direction of the University of Mpumalanga and the KaMagugu intersection when it left the road. Reports indicate the vehicle failed to stop at an intersection, crashed through a boundary fence, and travelled approximately 500 metres before entering the river at around 04:00.

Emergency services, including the SAPS Search and Rescue Unit, located the submerged vehicle with the two occupants trapped inside. Divers entered the cold water to secure the vehicle. Specialised equipment, including the Jaws of Life, was used to extricate the bodies. The male victim was positively identified by his family members. The female victim’s identity has not been fully confirmed, though police have located a family expected to assist in the identification process.

As authorities were preparing to conclude operations at the scene, another family approached the officers. They reported that their son had been travelling in the same vehicle and had not returned home. Attempts to contact him via cellphone were unsuccessful. The family believes he may be a third victim still in the river. The SAPS Search and Rescue Team indicated that operations may continue in an effort to locate the possible missing individual.

The bodies were transported for forensic pathology examinations. A case of culpable homicide has been opened by police, and investigations into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing. Factors such as speed, visibility, road conditions, and the driver’s actions are under review. No other vehicles were reported to be involved in the incident, and there have been no indications of foul play at this stage.

This incident has highlighted the dangers of the area around the Crocodile River, particularly near intersections and low-lying or unfenced sections close to the waterway. Emergency responders noted the challenges posed by the water conditions during the operation, including low temperatures that complicated diving efforts.

Police spokespersons have provided updates regarding the response and investigation. As of 8 June 2026, the search for the potential third victim remains a possibility, with efforts focused on thoroughly checking the river. Families of the deceased and the missing individual are being supported through the process. Police have urged anyone with additional information about the occupants of the vehicle or the events leading up to the crash to come forward to assist the investigation.

This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of road safety risks, especially in regions with nearby water bodies, and the critical role of rapid emergency response in such incidents. Further updates are expected as forensic results, full identifications, and the ongoing investigation progress.