Image: Unlicensed firearms and a large quantity of ammunition seized by police during an intelligence-driven operation on a farm in Carolina, leading to the arrest of a 62-year-old suspect.
A 62-year-old man has been remanded in custody following the recovery of more than 13 unlicensed firearms and a large quantity of ammunition during an intelligence-driven police operation in Carolina.
Police conducted a raid at a farm in Carolina at approximately 16:00 on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, where they arrested Frederick Jakobus Botha for the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. During the operation, officers recovered 13 firearms, including three self-manufactured weapons, four rifles, one shotgun and five handguns. Six pellet guns were also seized.
Image: Frederick Jakobus Botha (62) pictured alongside unlicensed firearms and ammunition seized during a police operation on a farm in Carolina.
In addition, police confiscated 1 080 rounds of ammunition of various calibres, along with 106 blank rounds. Botha failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for being in possession of the weapons and ammunition and was arrested at the scene.
Botha appeared before the Chief Albert Luthuli Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 14 January 2026. The case was postponed to 19 January 2026 for a formal bail application, and he was remanded in custody. Police have indicated that additional charges may still be added as the investigation continues.