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Moruleng – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mogwase, led by station commander colonel Raphata, joined forces with the North West Provincial Firearm Control Office to host a crucial awareness campaign at Machama Community Hall on Tuesday, 19 August 2025.

The session came after concerns were raised about a local shop reportedly selling toy guns that closely resemble real firearms.

Lieutenant colonel Mohau Gaobotse explained that, by law, a firearm is defined as any device that uses pressure from burning powder to fire a projectile through a barrel. He stressed that although toy replicas may look authentic, they are not legally classified as firearms and therefore fall outside of SAPS control.

Community leaders, including representatives of the Bakgatla Royal House, attended the event and assured residents they would engage directly with the shop owners to address the matter and provide feedback.