Pistols Hidden Under Bonnet Seized

Phokeng/ Rustenburg – A tactical operation led by the Phokeng K9 unit, backed by crime intelligence, has brought five armed suspects to justice after a dramatic bust in Chaneng near Phokeng, outside Rustenburg. On Wednesday, 3 September 2025, officers acted on a tip-off about a suspicious Audi Q3 parked with its bonnet open in Mafenya. On closer inspection, police spotted a balaclava on the engine cover. When questioned, one of the occupants fled the scene but was swiftly apprehended.

A search of the vehicle uncovered three pistols hidden inside the engine compartment, along with 25 rounds of ammunition. Two more suspects, who had attempted to hide in nearby bushes, were later tracked down and arrested.

The suspects – Matamela Madupo (46), Rapula Paul Thobi (37), Mzwakhe Matoko (22), Thabang Motaung (42), and Mojabatho Sidwell Vilikazi (36) – appeared before the Bafokeng Magistrates’ Court in Tlhabane on 5 September. They remain in custody until their next court appearance on 11 September.

The acting provincial commissioner of North West, major general Patrick Asaneng, commended the arrests.

Photo: One of the seized firearms – a Taurus pistol discovered hidden under the bonnet of the suspects’ vehicle.