Undocumented Foreign National Arrested With Illegal Firearm at Odendaalsrus Shebeen
A routine police patrol in the early hours of Sunday morning turned into a major criminal investigation when officers discovered an unlicensed firearm hidden beneath a suspect’s jacket during the shutdown of an illegal shebeen in Kutlwanong, Odendaalsrus.
The 22 year old man was arrested after police members found him in possession of a silver handgun with its serial number filed off, along with live ammunition. Authorities later confirmed that the suspect was also found to be an undocumented foreign national.
The arrest happened on 12 July 2026 when members from the Odendaalsrus Crime Prevention Unit and Community Service Centre were conducting patrol duties in the area.
At around 05:30, officers noticed a liquor outlet operating at the K2 location in Kutlwanong. Upon inspection, police discovered that the establishment was operating illegally and began the process of shutting it down.
During the operation, officers noticed a man inside the premises who appeared to be acting suspiciously. Police approached the man and requested permission to conduct a search.
The search revealed a silver handgun concealed underneath his jacket. The firearm had no visible serial number, indicating that it had been tampered with, and police also recovered six rounds of live ammunition.
The suspect was immediately arrested and faces charges related to the possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
Police further confirmed that additional charges will be brought against him under the Immigration Act after he was found to be in South Africa without the required documentation.
He is expected to appear in the Odendaalsrus Magistrate’s Court soon.
Meanwhile, authorities also took action against the illegal liquor outlet. The owner of the shebeen was issued with a fine, while the liquor found on the premises was confiscated.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by police to address illegal liquor trading, firearm related offences and other criminal activities affecting communities across the Free State.
Police have urged residents to continue reporting illegal activities and suspicious behaviour to help law enforcement respond quickly and prevent crime.
