Port St Johns Man Arrested for Pointing Firearm at Wife, Unlicensed Firearms Seized

In the small, coastal town of Port St Johns, South African Police Service (SAPS) has responded firmly to an incident of domestic violence and illegal possession of firearms. On Sunday, July 28, 2024, a 45-year-old man was arrested at the Mhlotsheni locality in Majola A/A after he was reported for pointing a 9mm pistol at his wife during a heated argument. The firearm, which was fully loaded, was licensed to the suspect, who has now been charged and is being held at the local Port St John’s police station.

In swift action by SAPS, it came to light that the same individual had transferred a shotgun to a 17-year-old relative within the locality. Police tracked down the young male at the specified homestead, seizing the shotgun and taking him into custody. Released under parental supervision, the minor faces charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm.

Continuing their crackdown, the National Intervention Unit apprehended a 28-year-old male in Ntsila locality at Ntsimbini A/A, armed with an illicit shotgun, acting on intelligence received. The suspect has since been detained and is awaiting prosecution for his crime.

The suspects involved in these two separate but critical operations are currently going through legal processes, appearing before the Port St John’s Magistrates Court to face charges. The confiscation of unlicensed firearms and the enforcement of laws against their possession are strong movements towards the region's efforts to curb the spread of illegal weapons and reduce the incidence of gun-related violence.

The community of Port St Johns, which often relies on SAPS for ensuring their safety, has been alerted and reassured by these recent interventions. Incidents such as these highlight the importance of continued vigilance and the necessity of strict control over firearm possession and use.