KEY POINTS
- A 33-year-old man was arrested for attempted murder in Brits.
- Police seized a firearm, magazine, and ammunition from the suspect.
- The suspect has appeared in court as investigations continue.
A 33-year-old man has been arrested in Brits, North West, for attempted murder and firearm-related offenses following a well-planned police operation.
The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, confirmed that the arrest was made on January 31, 2025, after a joint effort by the Brits Trio Task Team and Bojanala Crime Intelligence officers.
Also, the suspect had been under investigation for an incident in Damonsville, outside Brits, where he allegedly tried to kill someone and pointed a firearm at them.
“Following intelligence gathering and a period of surveillance, officers executed a tactical operation, leading to the successful arrest of the suspect,” said Mokgwabone.
According to IOL, during the arrest, police seized a licensed firearm, a magazine, and 16 rounds of ammunition, which will be used in the ongoing investigation.
Police praise swift action in violent crime crackdown
The Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, applauded the quick response and strategic efforts of the law enforcement team.
“The officers acted on credible intelligence, tracked the suspect’s movements, and struck at the right moment to make the arrest,” said Asaneng.
According to police reports, the suspect had been under surveillance since January 29, 2025, before officers moved in to detain him.
However, the regional authorities have stepped up their operations to reduce violent crimes alongside illegal weapon possession throughout the area.
Court appearance and ongoing investigation
The suspect appeared in the Brits Magistrate’s Court on Monday, where he faced charges of attempted murder and firearm offenses.
Investigators are trying to determine if the arrested person belongs to any other criminal networks active in the province.
The authorities request citizens to provide details that can help solve the investigation.
