Security officers under scrutiny after rifle seizure

One of the two Norinco rifles seized during the police compliance inspection at a Mooinooi plant.

Platinum Weekly newspaper | Mooinooi – A police inspection of security arrangements at a Mooinooi plant led to the arrest of two security officers after they allegedly failed to produce licences or permits for two rifles in their possession. Members of Operation Karabo conducted the compliance inspection on Monday morning, 12 October 2026.

According to police spokesperson colonel Adéle Myburgh, the officers were allegedly carrying two Norinco rifles resembling AK-47-type rifles. Preliminary investigations indicated that neither could produce the required firearm licences or permits, while one allegedly also lacked the competency certificate required to handle the firearm.

The officers, aged 29 and 38, were arrested for alleged possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. They appeared before the Mooinooi Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 14 October 2026. Police said the firearms allegedly belonged to a 44-year-old man. A separate case of alleged failure to safeguard a firearm was opened against him.

North West Provincial commissioner lieutenant general Arthur Adams stressed that firearm compliance is non-negotiable, particularly for security service providers entrusted with protecting people and property. Investigations are ongoing.