A 26-year-old mine worker was arrested in Mmakau near Brits on Friday, 13 November, after police discovered explosives suspected to have been stolen from a local mine.
Explosives with an estimated value of R8 000 were confiscated during a police operation in Mmakau near Brits. Photo: SAPS.
According to North West police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh, the arrest followed an intelligence-driven operation by members of Brits Crime Intelligence and the Brits Trio Task Team.
Police received information on Thursday, 12 November, about a man allegedly in possession of explosives believed to have been stolen from a mine in the area.
Following investigations to establish the suspect’s whereabouts, police launched a tactical operation at a property in Mapetla Section, Mmakau, at approximately 09:00 on Friday.
Officers located the suspect at the premises and searched the property, where they discovered a quantity of explosives.
The man was immediately arrested.
Myburgh said the suspect is reportedly employed at a mine as a drilling assistant operator.
Explosives worth R8 000 seized
During the operation, police confiscated 24 cartridges of Magnum Buster Gel and 30 sock tubes, with an estimated combined value of R8 000.
The explosives are suspected to have originated from a local mine, although their exact origin remains subject to investigation.
The successful operation was the result of cooperation between Brits Crime Intelligence and the Brits Trio Task Team.
Police warn of danger to communities
North West Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Arthur Peter Adams commended the officers involved for their swift response to the information received.
Adams emphasised that the illegal possession and trade of explosives pose a serious threat to public safety and would not be tolerated.
He also encouraged residents to continue providing information to police about suspected criminal activities, stressing the importance of community cooperation in preventing crime.
Suspect to appear in Brits court
The 26-year-old suspect is expected to appear in the Brits Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 16 November 2026, facing charges relating to the alleged contravention of the Explosives Act and theft.
Police investigations are continuing.
