Police in Bushbuckridge have arrested a 43-year-old man for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition following a public disturbance along the R40 road in Dwarsloop.

The incident occurred on Monday, 26 January 2026, when groups of community members blocked sections of the R40 at Dwarsloop, GA Beretta and GA Relane. According to police, truck drivers were allegedly forced to park across the road, blocking traffic, while their vehicle keys were confiscated.

Police were dispatched to the scene, where they engaged with the group and monitored the situation. While on duty, officers received further information about another group disrupting traffic at a stop-and-go section on an uphill stretch of the road. Police responded promptly and dispersed the group from the roadway.

During the operation, officers observed one individual carrying a firearm. The suspect was arrested after failing to produce a valid firearm licence. A firearm with its serial number filed off, as well as 12 live rounds of ammunition, were confiscated.

The suspect has been charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition and was expected to appear before the Bushbuckridge Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 27 January 2026.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended the officers for their swift and professional response. He said the arrest sends a strong message that lawlessness and illegal possession of firearms will not be tolerated, urging communities to raise concerns through lawful channels and work with police to ensure peace and stability.