POLICE TIGHTEN GRIP ON ILLEGAL FIREARMS

News

BY ZINHLE DLAMINI (INTERN)

MBABANE— The Royal Eswatini Police Service has intensified its crackdown on illegal firearms, arresting and charging three men in separate incidents as officers move decisively to safeguard communities and curb gun-related crime.

Information sourced from the police’s official Facebook page shows that officers in Pigg’s Peak responded swiftly to reports of gunfire in Mashobeni on Monday, April 27 2026. They arrested a 39-year-old man after finding him in possession of an unlicensed 308 rifle and seven live rounds of ammunition. Community members alerted police after hearing gunshots during a domestic altercation, prompting a rapid response that brought the situation under control.

Police reports indicate that the suspect confronted his wife during the altercation, forcing her to flee the homestead in fear. He then discharged a shot into the air, an act that heightened alarm in the area and triggered urgent calls to authorities. Officers moved in promptly and secured the firearm, preventing further escalation.

Later that day, Manzini police carried out another successful operation at the Manzini Central Galp Filling Station. Officers arrested two suspects aged 40 and 39 after discovering a star pistol with a scratched serial number in their possession, along with a live round of ammunition. Neither suspect held a valid licence or permit, leading to immediate charges.

The police have reinforced their stance against illegal firearms, emphasising that such weapons pose a direct threat to public safety and often contribute to violent crime. Officers continue to rely on intelligence-driven operations and strong community partnerships to track down offenders and remove illegal weapons from circulation.

Authorities have urged emaSwati to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, highlighting the critical role citizens play in maintaining peace and stability. These latest arrests reflect a coordinated and determined effort to dismantle unlawful networks and protect lives.

As law enforcement tightens its grip, Eswatini moves steadily towards safer communities, with police demonstrating both readiness and resolve to confront crime head-on.

#SaferCommunities #EswatiniSecurity #CrimePrevention #CommunityFirst

(Courtesy Pic)