Hawks seize R130,000 worth of explosives, arrest two in Nelspruit operation

In a significant operation in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, the Hawks, or Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, arrested two individuals and seized explosives valued at approximately R130,000, in an operation described as a major setback for illegal possession of explosives and organized crime. The arrested men were a 37-year-old undocumented foreign national and a 36-year-old South African citizen.

The operation, conducted by the Hawks' Nelspruit Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit, was supported by National Crime Intelligence, Fidelity Security Services, Fairview Mine, and the Illicit Mining Operation Vikela Barberton. Intelligence sources informed the Hawks about the suspects allegedly possessing explosives near a lodge along the R40 in Nelspruit.

At 15:30, the team intercepted the suspects at the lodge and apprehended them. They were found in a grey Hyundai i20, which was later seized for further investigation. The haul included 50 electric detonators, 80 blasting cartridges, and 32 connector cords, with an estimated street value of R130,000. Additionally, two cellular phones were recovered.

The Explosives Unit and Local Criminal Record Centre provided specialist assistance at the scene. The two suspects face charges under the Explosives Act and the Immigration Act, with a case opened at Nelspruit Police Station. They are due to appear in Nelspruit Magistrates' Court once formally charged. Major General Nico Gerber, head of Mpumalanga Hawks, praised the team's swift response and the successful disruption of the alleged illegal possession of explosives, stating that investigations are ongoing.