By Emily Setona
FICKSBURG – A police service firearm stolen eight years ago has been recovered after a 32-year old foreign national allegedly shot a man during a traditional feast on Saturday night.
The incident unfolded at about 21:30 on 21 February 2026 at Boitumelo Informal Settlement near Meqheleng township.
Police say community members were gathered inside a shack when the suspect allegedly turned aggressive and started quarrelling. A 58-year old man attempted to calm the situation and escorted him outside.
According to police spokesperson Mmako Mophiring, the suspect allegedly pulled out a firearm at the gate and fired, striking the man in the right leg.
The victim was rushed to hospital, treated and later discharged.
Police responded swiftly and arrested the suspect at the scene. He was found in possession of an unlicensed 9mm pistol and ammunition, with serial numbers intact.
Investigations confirmed the weapon is a police service firearm reported stolen eight years ago.
“The recovery of this firearm is significant. The suspect faces charges of attempted murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition,” Mophiring said.
The accused, who was found with a valid passport, remains in custody and appeared in the Ficksburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 23 February 2026.
Police investigations continue.
