Foreign nationals remanded over illegal firearm

By: The Guard Newspaper
May 20, 2026
4:12 am

By Teboho Moloi

QWAQWA – Two Ethiopian nationals accused of possessing an unlicensed firearm and ammunition have been remanded in custody for 30 days pending a formal bail application in the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrate’s Court.

Ephrem Worku Ashebo (22) and Biruk Tairet Arficho (27) briefly appeared in court on Monday following their arrest during a police stop-and-search operation at Makong village on Friday.

Police allege the pair were travelling in a bakkie that raised suspicion among officers, prompting a search of the vehicle.

During the search, police allegedly recovered a 9mm pistol loaded with live ammunition. The suspects were unable to produce a valid firearm licence and were immediately arrested.

The matter was postponed to 18 June 2026 for a formal bail application, with both accused remaining behind bars.

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Foreign nationals remanded over illegal firearm

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