The 27 October arrest followed from information received regarding an individual who was suspected to be in possession of unlicensed firearms and live ammunitions, the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) said.

Upon arrival with a search warrant at the suspect’s plot, officers found his wife, who alleged that her husband was at work. She was then informed of the reason for the visit and shown the approved search warrant. However, she refused the officers entry whilst dogs on the premises made it difficult for the police to gain access. The SAPS and EMPD K9 units were called to the scene to help contain the dogs. After a few minutes, the suspect arrived and the search commenced in his presence.

While searching, live ammunition was found in a safe upstairs, while in the main bedroom 79 9 mm rounds, two 9 mm magazines and one R5 magazine, were found along with 25 R5 rounds and a South African National Defence Force (SANDF) uniform.

Next to a large safe was a crate containing 12 types of explosives. Inside the locked safe, that the SAPS Technical Support Unit had to drill open, members recovered an R5 rifle, a handgun and a .22 rim fire long rifle inside, along with 684 9 mm rounds, 709 R5 rounds, 22 shotgun rounds, 400 .22 rounds, and 92 R1 rounds. Explosives experts and the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC) were contacted to the scene, and all the exhibits were seized.

The suspect was read his rights and was detained at the Heidelberg police station. Facing charges of possession of military uniform, explosives, unlicensed firearms, live ammunition and he is expected to appear before the Magistrate court soon, the EMPD said.

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The Western Cape had the highest number of confiscated firearms, and KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng ranked second and third.

According to Dr Guy Lamb, a political conflict lecturer at Stellenbosch University, the vast majority of illegal firearms circulating in South Africa are sourced from within the country.

Lost and stolen handguns, mainly pistols and revolvers, make up the majority of guns on the illegal market.

“They’ve been lost or stolen from licensed firearm owners, and they’re probably the greatest source of illegal weapons,” Lamb said. “Every year, there are anywhere between 6 000 and 8 000 civilian firearms that are legally held that are lost or stolen.”

Also, about 1 800 firearms are lost and stolen from police, military, or other state entities. In 2016, former Gauteng police colonel Christiaan Prinsloo confessed to selling thousands of firearms to Cape Flats gangs, including some semi-automatic and automatic weapons.

Last year, GroundUp reported on inconsistencies in the record-keeping of lost and stolen state-owned firearms.

Lamb said that criminal groups might also establish private security firms as a means to access firearms.

Some weapons flow into South Africa from neighbouring countries. In late August, nine people appeared in a Windhoek court for stealing firearms, including AK-47s, from a Namibian military armoury and attempting to smuggle them into South Africa.

According to a report by Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime, one of the ways these weapons are smuggled is through trucks carrying fresh goods, such as flowers or fruit.

More than 40% of murders in South Africa are carried out with firearms. According to Gun Free South Africa, a non-profit organisation, 33 people are murdered with guns in the country daily on average.

To address the illegal firearm market, Lamb said there needs to be targeted policing operations to confiscate firearms and measures in place to reduce their loss or theft. For example, in the past, SAPS has held firearm amnesties, where people can surrender illegal or unwanted guns without fear of prosecution.

He also said there can be better security for SAPS 13 stores, the rooms where confiscated weaponry is held in police stations. Gun Free South Africa has called for tighter control over licensed firearms held by state and civilian users and proper stockpile management with regular audits.

Written by GroundUp and republished with permission. The original article can be found here.

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For many years, those in the know who know how to see like no one is watching have used the advanced, budget-friendly, and dependable day and night vision technologies specifically designed for local landscapes and environments.

DNT Optics, in its passion for “seeing in the dark”, integrates thermal imaging, night vision, and cutting-edge laser range finding with digital ballistic calculation to give users total visual supremacy under pitch dark or full sunlight. The company, importing and distributing exclusively in South Africa through Engage Optics, is revolutionising the world of optics with its rugged series of multi-spectral scopes, innovative accessories, and attention to real-world performance.

“At Engage Optics, we believe in delivering optics that are accurate, repeatable, reliable, and rugged – for a competitive price,” says Anton Prinsloo, Director of Engage Optics.

“We’re pleased to be the sole distributor of Arken and DNT Optics in South Africa, and we believe in the value, innovation, and precision these products bring to our customers.”

Innovation beyond light

DNT, or Day Night Technologies, is an organization dedicated to making advanced optics accessible to a broader consumer base. Their Thermnight series, comprising the TNC225R, TNC335R, and TNC635R models, represents a breakthrough in optical technology, leading the industry with innovative solutions. These multi-spectral scopes integrate thermal imaging and high-definition digital night vision into compact systems, enabling users to locate, identify, and engage targets with precision in any light conditions, day or night.

Each Thermnight model features high-quality sensors, laser rangefinders, ballistic calculators, and Picture-in-Picture modes, setting a new standard for performance in challenging conditions. Whether used for predator control in the Karoo or hunting game in the Eastern Cape bush, these scopes deliver unmatched confidence and clarity.

“With products like the ThermNight TNC635R, we’re not just keeping up with technological trends – we’re leading the way,” added Prinsloo.

“We’ve carefully selected gear that performs in South Africa’s demanding conditions, from Mpumalanga’s mountain trails to the humid KwaZulu-Natal bush.”

Tools that perform – Day or Night

Apart from the ThermNight product range, DNT’s Hydra line offers a versatile 3-in-1 thermal solution designed for hunters or security operators requiring adaptability in dynamic environments. This multi-function device serves as a handheld monocular for rapid scanning and surveillance, a dedicated thermal rifle scope for precise targeting in low-light conditions, or a clip-on attachment compatible with Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO) to enhance existing daytime optics with thermal imaging capabilities. Tailored for hunters or tactical professionals, the Hydra ensures seamless transitions between roles, providing unmatched flexibility and performance.

For those who want uncompromising optical greatness, DNT’s “TheOne” 7–35×56 FFP scope is a dream come true for a long-range shooter, combining precision glass and tough performance at a budget-friendly price point.

Designed for South African conditions

What sets DNT Optics apart is not the tech – it’s the commitment to reliability in real African conditions. From DNT gear and accessories, every item is chosen or tested to survive harsh conditions. Rain or sand, freezing cold or scorching heat – these optics are built to endure.

DNT’s accessory selection is just as impressive. It includes robust mounting systems, rechargeable batteries, IR940 integrated torches, and more. Be it a throw lever for the Zulus scope or an detachable IR illuminator, each component enhances performance and adds usability in the field.

“Not just are our accessories being extras – they’re a fundamental aspect of the performance and reliability of our systems,” Prinsloo explained.

“If your success in the bush or on patrol depends on your optics, everything matters.”

Next-gen digital integration: The DNT app

DNT is going digital as well. The newly-added DNT App supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connection, allowing easy uploading of ballistic profiles, firmware syncing, and live scope control. From bullet drop calibration on the ThermNight to zoom setting on the Zulus HD, the app gives you total control – in your hand.

With up to five ballistic profiles, live picture-in-picture overlays, and scope pairing without sacrificing performance, DNT’s software environment complements its hardware’s field dominance.

Ready to go in the field, fuelled by local expertise

Whatever your role – a hunter gearing up for a night stalk, a security agent on duty, or a sport shooter demanding consistent performance – DNT Optics and Engage Optics deliver what you require – and a little more.

From national distribution to expert guidance, South Africans can now enjoy access to top-shelf technology without apology.

“Really, we’re enabling people to do what they love or get their work done better – with confidence, precision, and clarity,” Anton Prinsloo concluded.

“Day or night, DNT Optics makes you see it all.”

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“The adventure started in Africa for EuroOptic when a co-founder shareholder, EuroOptic in the USA, wished to carry the same model of business over to Africa,” Jacobs explains.

“It made sense to have a similar name since we use the same direct-to-consumer internet sales model, all about high-end optics and firearms.”

EuroOptic Africa has become a value distributor of choice for leading international brands in no time.

“We are the South African distributors for Accuracy International, Barrett, Daniel Defense, Gunwerks, CMMG, and EOTech. On the optics side, we retail a lot of Nightforce and Vortex optics,” Jacobs describes.

In addition to rifles and optics, the business also wholesales bulk ammunition – namely 223, 308, and 7.62x39mm.

A focused product strategy

The composition of the existing inventory is telling: “It’s approximately 50% firearms, 40% optics, and the remaining 10% accessories,” Jacobs explains.

But unlike most generalist retailers, EuroOptic Africa isn’t seeking quantity – it’s seeking quality.

“We only stock top-of-the-line products. Our focus is on quality at the top, not what’s trendy.”

Asked about growing global demand for smart ballistic gear and night vision, Jacobs is pragmatic.

“There are some orders for thermal and night vision optics, but not many sales. Affordability is still the big barrier in this market.”

No-frills, high-trust services

While EuroOptic Africa presently does not have formal training or licensing support to offer to police, military, or civilians, it does ensure that after-sales service is not an afterthought. “We don’t have a gunsmith on premises, so we don’t do fitting or servicing,” Jacobs confesses freely.

“But we do assist customers in sighting in their rifles and provide full warranty service on all our products.”

Their “Easy Pay” facility is a huge draw.

“It allows people to pay a 20% deposit and settle the balance over up to 11 months interest-free. We’re not providing a financial service – just making customers more affordable,” he says.

It proves especially useful when purchasing firearm licenses: “When the deposit has been paid, customers can go ahead with their licensing process, and many settle the outstanding balance once their license arrives.”

Logistics & expansion

Having an online presence predominantly, EuroOptic Africa delivers products across South Africa via courier and uses licensed transporters for bulk or specialty items. “We are in the process of securing shopfront space from other dealers and establishing ammunition depots in Gauteng and KZN,”” reveals Jacobs.

On the institutional demand side, the company has supplied products to SANParks and is a registered vendor with SAPS, although there are no formal contracts.

A modest but strategic digital footprint

While active on Facebook and Instagram, Jacobs admits that the company’s online presence is not necessarily for conversion but for brand awareness.

“We do have a lot of activity on social media, but sometimes it does not switch to sales. However, it is needed for visibility.”

For the most part, the company posts photographs, but video content is in the works.

“We do plan to make more videos product demonstrations, reviews, even possibly event footage in the near future.”

Industry outlook: growth with caution

Jacobs remains optimistic about the future of Africa’s firearms and optics sector – but with a measured view.

“We are seeing constant growth, but a lot will depend on the political climate. The weak Rand makes sport shooting and hunting expensive hobbies, yet we’re quietly confident that the industry will keep growing.”

Despite geopolitical changes affecting defense and conservation globally, Jacobs states that EuroOptic Africa has not been impacted too much up to now.

What sets EuroOptic Africa apart?

“We’re not trying to be all things to all people,” Jacobs says.

“What sets us apart is that we only sell the best brands and add to them outstanding personal service and support. That’s why customers come back.”

While they already have exclusive distribution rights for a number of international brands, Jacobs stresses that they’re not building barriers.

“All our exclusive brands are still available for wholesale. We’re not looking to exclude the industry – we want to strengthen it.”

Partnerships and the road ahead

The supply chain is largely from the USA and UK, supplemented by local sourcing. “Accessories will take around a month, but firearms will take 5 to 12 months, depending on permits,” he says.

EuroOptic Africa is also interested in increasing its presence among Africa’s competitive shooting scene.

“We are already sponsoring prizes for certain events, but plan to become more active in ELR (Extreme Long Range) and Precision Rifle competitions in the near future.”

As the African tactical and shooting sports markets continue to evolve, EuroOptic Africa is positioning itself less as a trend-follower – yet as a curated gateway to international excellence.

“We’re here for the long haul,” asserts Jacobs.

“And we believe there’s a promising future for premium optics and high-precision shooting on this continent.”

The post EuroOptic Africa Expands with Premium Brands, Online Reputation, and Right Service appeared first on ProtectionWeb.

“We have built our legacy over 60+ years, and our future is built around adaptability, accessibility, and excellence in everything that we do,” provides Grant Gonen, Fire Arms Manager at Nicholas Yale.

Building a legacy of trust

With a dealer network of more than 400 active dealers serviced from its warehouse in Johannesburg, Nicholas Yale has established itself as a partner of trust within the Southern African firearms market.

“As one of the industry’s oldest players, we’ve built longevity and trust while maintaining an extensive network with a product range to suit every market in South Africa,” says Gonen.

Securing long-term distribution rights for globally renowned manufacturers has enabled Nicholas Yale to maintain high standards in product quality and availability, ensuring that South Africans have the same access to premium brands as shooters elsewhere in the world.

Supporting security forces

Although confidentiality agreements limit information on specific engagements, Nicholas Yale has a consistent role in supplying law enforcement and security agencies with products that address operational needs.

“We are constantly supporting law enforcement and the security industry with the relevant products to fulfill their needs,” Gonen confirms.

A particular point of interest is the growing interest being expressed by police forces in the Sarsilmaz B6 pistol, valued for its affordability and operational familiarity.

“If our suppliers can meet specific technical or operational requirements, we organise special orders to meet these needs,” he adds.

Compliance is at the center of Nicholas Yale’s business.

“We work closely with our Responsible Person to ensure full compliance with the Firearms Control Act, taking all permits necessary for lawful import and export,” says Gonen.

Growing the civilian and sporting market

Nicholas Yale remains an avid supporter of the shooting sport and civilian fraternity, with specialist items for most disciplines.

“For handgun events, Smith & Wesson’s Competitor range is highly popular, and in trap shooting, the Fabarm N2 range is a favourite,” Gonen says.

The company also suggests the Bergara rifle range for competitive shooting, prized for its accuracy and value for money, and stocks an extensive range of Gamo airguns for use by junior shooters.

Promoting safe, responsible firearms use is an inherent part of Nicholas Yale’s engagement with the civilian market.

“We do public shoot days with qualified instructors, where the public can come and safely handle and fire firearms,” Gonen describes.

One of these events where the public can engage safely with firearms and get hands-on experience with the latest on offer is their Smith & Wesson night at Wildman Silver Lakes in August 2025.

Driving innovation

Innovation and product relevance are at the center of the company’s business strategy. A few of the recent highlights are the Smith & Wesson Shield Plus Optic Ready, which is being promoted for its slim profile, optics-ready slide, improved trigger, and high capacity magazine, making it an ideal concealed carry firearm. The Bergara rifles continue to gain interest from hunters and sport shooters due to their custom-level performance at affordable prices.

“South African shooters are trending towards compact, high-capacity handguns for self-defense and light, modular rifles for hunting with top-end optics,” Gonen says.

Nicholas Yale’s product range planning is guided by South Africa’s unique market conditions in finding a balance between the security needs and sport and civilian shooting market.

Regional reach and local support

Beyond South Africa, Nicholas Yale exports to Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and other regional markets, offering after-sales service in the form of guarantees and direct servicing where required.

“We encourage customers to return merchandise through the retailer where they have made the purchase, and we deal with the repair or replacement if a manufacturing defect is detected,” Gonen explains.

Marketing local producers such as StealthX, which produces multi-calibre suppressors, is part of Nicholas Yale’s strategy of building the South African firearms industry.

“We actively promote South African-made products, as this will expand the industry and encourage local innovation,” Gonen states.

Challenges and the way forward

Walking the tightrope between the needs of security agencies and civilians can be challenging under circumstances such as global supply chain disruptions.

“Supply is always a challenge in our industry, but we have weathered many disruptions and will continue to find solutions,” says Gonen.

Looking ahead, Nicholas Yale sees trends such as the rising demand for compact, optics-ready pistols for everyday carry and modular hunting rifles as key drivers of their future strategy.

“With day-to-day life becoming increasingly expensive, we will always look to protect the industry while bringing value-driven and performing products to market,” says Gonen.

A vision for sustainable leadership

Nicholas Yale’s vision for the long term is centered on sustainable growth, enhanced access to leading international brands, and Southern African firearms industry leadership.

“Our goal is to continue being the first choice for retailers, sport shooters, hunters, and security professionals across the region while adapting to the evolving needs of our clients,” Gonen states.

With over six decades of experience, Nicholas Yale is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, ensuring it remains a trusted supplier committed to the responsible growth of Southern Africa’s firearms market.

“At Nicholas Yale, we’re here to stay, providing the best the world has to offer while supporting local industry and promoting responsible firearm ownership across Southern Africa,” Gonen concludes.

The post Legacy, innovation, and trust: How Nicholas Yale is guiding Southern Africa’s firearms industry appeared first on ProtectionWeb.

“Stealth Silencers was born out of a desire for improved performance, quality, and versatility,” explains Johan Cronje le Roux, Director at Stealth Silencers.

“Most silencers on the market compromise on key factors such as sound suppression and recoil reduction.”

Born out of curiosity, developed for performance

What began as a hobby project by one of Stealth’s investors who had CNC tooling experience soon exceeded expectations. The prototype was “noticeably quieter, had interchangeable muzzle brakes, and offered a level of versatility and performance we hadn’t seen before,” le Roux says.

After a year of R&D, Stealth Silencers officially debuted at Huntex in April 2025 with the mission to supply high-performance, modular silencers to civilian gun owners and sports shooters.

“Our goal is to supply a silencer that is durable, versatile, and of a high quality. Our interchangeable muzzle brake system enables the user to mount the silencer on more than one rifle, offering practicality and economy,” le Roux states.

Why Stealth silencers make sense for civilians

For hunters, recreational shooters, and even those considering silencers for home defense, Stealth Silencers provides excellent value. “Instead of purchasing a separate silencer for each firearm, shooters can purchase one Stealth Silencer and use it on multiple platforms,” le Roux explains.

Apart from versatility, the silencers offer best-in-class recoil reduction, which means better control, accuracy, and confidence whether in the range or the bush. With modularity in mind as a design aspect, Stealth silencers can even be shortened for home defense or dense bush situations without degrading performance.

“It’s a solution for those shooters who expect the best from their equipment,” le Roux continues.

Design philosophy: Flexible and easy to service

Stealth Silencers prioritizes practicality, durability, and versatility. Each unit has aircraft-grade aluminium for lightweight strength, with fully removable baffles that allow easy, total cleaning.

“Everything we design is with a view to maximizing user experience: ease of maintenance, lifespan, and versatility without sacrificing performance,” le Roux explains.

This makes the silencers robust enough for abusive conditions with consistent top-level performance over years of use.

Intuitive the Xpanse: One silencer, multiple applications

At the heart of Stealth’s offering is the Xpanse silencer, which has been designed for hunters, sport shooters, and those with an interest in personal protection.

“The Xpanse features a modular system that allows the user to adjust the length of the silencer for different applications,” le Roux explains.

From requiring maximum recoil and sound suppression to having improved maneuverability in tight spaces, the Xpanse obliges. Its interchangeable muzzle brake system also provides a cost-effective solution for firearm owners who require one solution for a number of rifles.

Silencers: Legal and encouraged

Silencers are completely legal in South Africa and require no licensing, making them accessible to all legal firearm owners.

“Instead of being tools of concern, silencers optimize gun performance, reduce recoil, and lower noise levels,” le Roux says.

“In fact, on most hunting farms across South Africa, silencer use is becoming more and more compulsory.”

They also preserve shooters’ hearing by reducing decibel levels significantly, promoting a healthier, more pleasant shooting experience.

Taking care of your silencer

Stealth encourages owners to care for silencers the same way they do their guns, with the removable baffle system making cleaning a breeze and ensuring durability.

“Regular maintenance retains the sound suppression and recoil reduction capabilities,” advises le Roux.

Silencers should always be kept separate from guns, dry, and periodically inspected for wear.

How Stealth silencers improve your shooting experience

Stealth’s silencers significantly reduce noise and recoil, and are appropriate for recreational and hunting use.

“Our internal baffle design retards and cools expanding gases, reducing sound and disturbance to wildlife and others,” le Roux explains.

Recoil reduction improves control and accuracy while reducing muzzle flash enhances low-light visibility – important for dawn or dusk hunts.

Built to last

All Stealth silencers are constructed of high-quality aircraft aluminium, anodized for optimum surface hardness, heat resistance, and scratch and moisture protection. This ensures performance and aesthetics even after long use in rough conditions.

Future-oriented development

Stealth Silencers is also investing in its future with the new ProX9mm silencer, designed for use on handguns with lifting barrels.

“We’re excited about what the ProX9mm will offer, providing effective sound and recoil reduction on semi-automatic pistols,” le Roux shares.

Meanwhile, the company recently partnered with Nicholas Yale, a respected firearms accessories wholesaler, to expand access nationwide, ensuring Stealth Silencers are available in retail stores across South Africa.

The post Stealth silencers: Bringing civilian shooters to the next level of Quiet and Control appeared first on ProtectionWeb.

In a formal reply, the Minister cited a 2016 empirical study conducted by the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA), titled The Barrel of the Gun: Improving the Regulation and Control of the Use of Firearms within the Private Security Industry in South Africa. The study provided evidence-based recommendations to strengthen regulation of firearms in the industry and was supported by additional academic research, including studies on the health risks of TASER use (Jauchem, 2010; Zipes, 2012) and the broader implications of firearm regulation in private security (Minnaar, 2008).

The proposed regulations do not ban firearms in the sector but aim to tighten controls and increase accountability. They include requirements for private security companies to ensure officers are fit, trained and legally compliant before issuing firearms. The regulations would also mandate strict record-keeping on the issuance, use and tracking of weapons, reduce the risk of loss or theft, and enforce adherence to the Firearms Control Act, particularly in gun-free zones.

The Department emphasised that the changes are intended to promote responsible firearm management and do not undermine the industry’s operational capabilities. It also clarified that the restricted non-lethal weapons, such as those used in crowd control, are classified as potentially lethal and are not standard issue for private security. These remain the responsibility of specialised police units.

Under Section 35(1)(m) of the Private Security Industry Regulation Act (Act 56 of 2001), the Minister is authorised to introduce regulations relating to the use and possession of weapons in the industry. The Minister argues that the new framework will allow PSiRA to maintain a comprehensive, updated national database on firearm use within the sector, thereby improving regulatory oversight and public safety.

While the government frames the changes as a response to long-standing regulatory gaps, critics remain concerned that the restrictions could limit private security firms’ effectiveness in deterring crime at a time of rising national violence. The debate continues over how best to balance security, public safety and regulatory control.

The post Government Defends Tighter Private Security Gun Controls Amid Rising Violent Crime appeared first on ProtectionWeb.

Speaking at the official launch, National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola outlined the scope and objectives of the operation. He said the second phase of Shanela would build on the gains of the initial campaign, which led to over 1.2 million arrests in 18 months. Since 1 April 2025, over 180,000 individuals have already been arrested under Shanela 2, including:

• 6,971 suspects wanted for serious and violent crimes

• 1,881 for murder

• 1,576 for attempted murder

• 2,367 for rape

• 18,255 for assault GBH

• 1,119 for illegal firearm possession

• 25,643 for drug-related offences

The SAPS has further recovered 1,441 firearms, 27,005 rounds of ammunition, and 862 hijacked or stolen vehicles.

Masemola stated that Operation Shanela II will focus on six key crime categories: murder (including gang and taxi-related killings), hijackings, illegal firearms, drug crimes, and gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). The aim is to improve operational efficiency through increased police visibility, advanced technologies, and focused deployments informed by recent crime statistics.

Nationwide Implementation

The operation is being implemented across all provinces, with each region focusing on local crime patterns.

Free State: Targeting Border and Urban Crime

In Mangaung Metro, Operation Shanela II is active in hotspots including Bloemspruit, Parkweg, Botshabelo, Boithuso, Kopanong, and surrounding border areas. The multidisciplinary team, which includes the Department of Home Affairs, Border Management Authority, and Provincial Traffic officials, recently held a joint parade in Wepener before executing cross-border operations.

• Nine undocumented individuals were arrested for immigration violations.

• A Toyota Quantum was impounded, and 75 vehicles and 161 people were searched.

• In Qibing, compliance checks led to the confiscation of 25 litres of home-brewed alcohol and 128,520 litres of alcohol. Fines were issued for unauthorised liquor sales.

• In Bloemfontein CBD, a 41-year-old man was arrested for dealing in crystal meth. Six undocumented individuals were detained, and several road traffic fines were issued.

Eastern Cape: Rural Crime and Firearms

In Mthatha, Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Major General Thandiswa Kupiso launched the provincial leg of the operation on 27 June. She described Shanela 2 as a “deliberate escalation” of crime-fighting efforts.

Early successes include:

• Arrest of two suspects in Sulenkama for possession of 24 suspected stolen goats.

• In Lusikisiki, a 46-year-old was arrested for possession of a 9mm pistol linked to a civilian.

• A 39-year-old was arrested in Bajodini, Qumbu, for possession of an unlicensed revolver.

Gauteng: Urban Crime and Illegal Mining

In Johannesburg, Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni led operations in Jeppe and Cleveland precincts. Detectives arrested 941 suspects for crimes including murder, attempted murder, hijacking, robbery, and rape.

• Roadblocks, raids, and mining disruption efforts resulted in 32 arrests for immigration violations, illegal mining, and drug-related offences.

• Fines totalling R24,500 were issued for traffic and by-law infringements.

At Mary Fitzgerald Square, officers held a coordinated parade before being deployed for stop-and-search operations throughout Johannesburg.

Western Cape: Tackling Gang and Liquor Offences

In Mfuleni, officers arrested a 23-year-old man for illegal liquor sales after a tip-off. A large quantity of alcohol was confiscated. The suspect is expected to appear in the Blue Downs Magistrates’ Court.

Community Outreach and GBVF Focus

Alongside enforcement, SAPS has intensified outreach to rural communities. In Bloemspruit, station leadership held a session on policing accessibility and community engagement. Multiple arrests were made for drug possession, possession of dangerous weapons, and immigration offences.

Operation Shanela II is intended to focus acutely on combatting gender-based violence. SAPS reported the arrest of 2,367 rape suspects and 162 attempted rape suspects in the previous three months. Additionally, convictions have been secured in high-profile GBVF cases, including several life sentences handed down by regional courts for rape of minors and serial sexual offences.

Furthermore, General Masemola has urged all officers to conduct themselves with discipline and integrity, maintain high command and control, and continue their efforts to “track and trace all wanted criminals.” He reaffirmed the SAPS’s commitment to creating safer communities and enhancing public trust in law enforcement.

The post SAPS Launch Operation Shanela II to Tackle Violent Crime and Strengthen Community Safety appeared first on ProtectionWeb.

A Pandemic Pivot Becomes a Strategic Leap

Spartan Arms began life in Johannesburg’s Stoneridge Shopping Centre, operating as a gun shop with an indoor shooting range and a café. Initially, the company focused on importing and exporting firearms. But COVID-era supply chain challenges exposed the limitations of that model.

“We realised we wanted to start with locally manufactured firearms,” explains Keagan Salt. That realisation triggered a strategic transformation. The firm secured a full manufacturing licence, scaled up in-house production, and shifted focus toward high-precision, customisable firearms engineered on-site.

Engineering Edge, The Spartan SAI Line

The crown jewel of Spartan’s product line is the SAI AR15 (Spartan Arms International), a semi-automatic rifle designed to user specifications. Built from forged T7075 upper and lower receivers, it features a QPQ (Quench Polish Quench) Black Bolt-Carrier Group, free-floating rail systems, mil-spec triggers, buffer tubes and stocks. Each rifle is chambered in .223 Wylde, making it safe for both .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO ammunition.

That chamber choice is deliberate. Salt explains, “The .223 Remington was designed for bolt action, manually operated rifles. With an AR, one mag and the chamber’s filthy. The .223 Wylde is the most forgiving, accurate, versatile, and reliable, even when dirty.” Combined with a 1:8 twist rate barrel; Spartan’s rifles can stabilise heavier projectiles while remaining compatible with standard 55-grain NATO ammo. “It’s a combination that really worked for us,” Salt says.

Earlier versions, like the SAI Mark I, featured more basic elements like A-frame sights and drop-in handguards, however the company quickly transitioned to free-floating handguards, which enhance barrel cooling and accuracy, while offering a competitive edge in a modernised platform.

Precision, Not Production Lines

Everything but one minor process (due to space limitations) is now done in-house at Spartan’s Edenvale facility. The company’s design ethos is defined by obsessive iteration. “If there’s something we can improve, such as polishing a chamber, refining a cut, we do it,” Salt says. “We never stop looking for better ways to refine the process.”

That engineering philosophy has paid off. In range tests, Spartan’s rifles regularly fire hundreds of rounds without a single jam, even when the chamber is fouled. “Not one failure,” Salt reports. “We stand by our product. We wouldn’t be in business if we were constantly replacing parts.”

The rifles also come with a lifetime warranty, excluding only the barrel, which is considered a wear-and-tear item.

Expanding the Line, 9mm, .300 Blackout and Beyond

Not content with just the .223 platform, Spartan Arms has developed a 9mm AR-style carbine, feeding from Glock magazines and designed for close-quarters use. This was followed by the launch of a .300 Blackout variant, purpose-built for subsonic ammunition, with modified gas-port sizing to ensure cycling even with suppressors and subsonic ammunition.

“A lot of manufacturers adapt their .300 Blackout rifles from supersonic ammunition, however that defeats the purpose,” Salt says. “Ours was built ground-up for subsonic.”

Currently, the company is in development on an AR-10 platform but refuses to release it until it’s proven. “We won’t go to market unless the rifle meets our standards,” Salt states. “Too many manufacturers rush just to make money. That’s not what we’re about.”

Real-World Adoption and Repeat Business

Spartan Arms is already supplying rifles to the Botswana Police Service, Malawian Correctional Services, and multiple South African Metro police departments, with further international expansion underway. The response, Salt says, has been overwhelmingly positive, “The feedback’s been fantastic, and we’re getting follow-up orders. That’s how you know your product’s working.”

In a market where word-of-mouth and operational performance matter more than flashy marketing, repeat institutional business is a strong indicator of success.

But Salt is clear-eyed about the road ahead. “We’re not trying to flood the market. We’re building rifles the way we think they should be built. Durable, reliable, accurate, and backed by real support.”

In a crowded firearms industry filled with shortcuts and compromises, Spartan Arms is choosing a harder but more sustainable path, built on precision, local manufacturing, and relentless testing. Led by Keagan Salt, Guided by Paul Kosta and assisted by Ryno Gericke, this is one company that’s not trying to be the biggest, but might just be one of the best.

The post Forged in Precision: How Spartan Arms Is Quietly Redefining South African Firearm Manufacturing appeared first on ProtectionWeb.

“South Africa is a key country in the area and is widely used as a stepping stone to other countries in Africa, especially in the southern part of the continent,” said Dr. Lukáš Kuna, Marketing Officer of GRAND POWER.

“We view it as a gateway to expanding our presence in the continent.”

Founded over 20 years ago, GRAND POWER has become a byword among the fraternities of gun fanciers across Europe and North America, renowned for durable designs and budget-friendly tags.

“We employ over 120 highly skilled employees in two state-of-the-art plants, and our underlying objective is to deliver robust and dependable products that meet the expectations of even the most demanding shooters,” Dr. Kuna elaborates.

A reputation forged in performance

GRAND POWER firearms have been awarded worldwide, for example, with medals at world competitions.

“Recently, we are very proud of our sponsored shooters, who gained a series of medals at the recent World Shoot 2025 in Znojmo, including gold medals in several categories like PCC,” Dr. Kuna explained, highlighting how competitive success reflects the company’s engineering philosophy.

What truly sets GRAND POWER apart in an increasingly competitive market is its pioneering customer-driven philosophy.

“We listen to our customers and go the extra mile to make their wishes come true,” Dr. Kuna said.

“Our firearms offer great value at reasonable prices, which is top priority for our customers in South Africa and southern Africa.”

Designing for African needs

Well aware of the particular issues of African security agencies and law enforcement, GRAND POWER’s flagship gun, the K100, has military service in its DNA.

“The K100 was developed by our CEO and sole owner, Mr. Jaroslav Kuracina, during his time in the military,” Dr. Kuna explained.

“It’s durable, reliable, and compatible with military and LEO gear, but easy to service in the field – qualities African security agencies like.”

Environmental adaptability is also a key consideration.

“Our entire range of products for this market are rigorously tested and NATO AC225 compliant and certified,” Dr. Kuna stated.

“We do the majority of our surface treatments in-house, including Tenifer treatment for steel parts and hard anodizing for aluminium parts, to make our firearms operable in South Africa’s varied environmental conditions.”

Although GRAND POWER has not yet secured contracts from security forces in South Africa, it is optimistic regarding the potential use of its products.

“Government contracts can be complicated where quality and price are not always the only deciding factors,” Dr. Kuna acknowledged.

“But we have positive feedback from other police and military forces, including US SOCOM, Cape Verde police, Greek Armed Forces, Slovak military, and Police Special Forces.”

Civilian and sport shooting enthusiasm

The popularity of GRAND POWER extends from military and law enforcement to civilian and sport shooting markets, which are vibrant in South Africa.

“We have only received positive feedback from civilian shooters and sport shooting enthusiasts,” said Dr. Kuna.

“Our guns offer extreme precision, are easily adaptable to individual preferences, and have good aftermarket support.”

The STRIBOG range, in particular, has been a hit with South African shooters, offering reliability and versatility.

“The STRIBOG product range is very successful in your region, and the X-calibur – our top-of-the-range model – is also finding favor with sport shooters,” Dr. Kuna said.

“At the recent HUNTEX show, we introduced new products like the ARAQ rifle, and we’re eagerly anticipating how well it’s received by the African market.”

Innovation based on AfricaniInput

The firm’s latest offering, the ARAQ rifle, is a reflection of GRAND POWER’s responsiveness to African demand.

“Our newest product – the ARAQ – was actually market-driven by this region,’ Dr. Kuna explained.

“A customer asked for a rifle in 7.62×39 caliber, using AK pattern magazines, which are widespread in Africa. We took it a step further, merging AR10 design elements with AK magazine compatibility to create a truly innovative product for the African market.”

This innovative approach is extended to all product categories.

“We believe in universality – tastes of African sport shooters are the same as elsewhere in the world when it comes to accuracy, reliability, lifespan, and user-friendliness,” Dr. Kuna asserted.

Looking ahead: Partnerships and presence

As GRAND POWER expands its African footprint, the firm is examining how it can expand local presence and after-sales support.

“We work hand in hand with our partners and representatives in the territory to maximize our customer service and render the experience seamless, irrespective of our customers’ distance,” Dr. Kuna highlighted.

Although there are no immediate plans for local assembly or manufacturing partnerships, GRAND POWER feels there is space for such partnerships in the future.

“There were such plans in the past, but at present, there is no specific plan in the pipeline,” Dr. Kuna confirmed.

For now, it is a matter of strengthening partnerships and expanding distribution.

“We always stand behind our products, and we do our best to provide the same level of customer support in every country,” Dr. Kuna assured.

As the African gun market further emerges, GRAND POWER stands poised to bring its Slovak engineering expertise to the continent – providing not just guns, but reliability and accuracy engineered for Africa’s unique requirements.

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