MPUMALANGA – Two suspects have been arrested for the possession of rhino horns and unlicensed firearms following a police interception on the N12 highway in Mpumalanga. Officials from the Middelburg Flying Squad recovered the illicit items during a late-night patrol, leading to impending court appearances at the Witbank Magistrate’s Court.
On Wednesday, 22 July 2026, at approximately 23:45, members of the Middelburg Flying Squad were conducting a patrol on the N12 route between Ogies and Kendal. During the operation, officers identified a suspicious silver Toyota Etios displaying Mpumalanga registration numbers and proceeded to stop and search the vehicle and its two occupants.
A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a black jacket deliberately covering two rhino horns and two hunting rifles. Police also discovered rounds of ammunition concealed within the car.
Following the discovery, the two suspects were taken into custody. According to police officials, the individuals will appear at the Witbank Magistrate’s Court in the near future. They face formal charges of possession of rhino horns, as well as possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
Authorities continue to urge the public to report any suspicious activities related to wildlife crimes or illegal firearms to support ongoing law enforcement efforts in the province.
