The discovery of three live rounds of ammunition in the school bag of a 15-year-old learner at a high school in Mahonisi village, Malamulele, has raised alarm over illegal firearms finding their way into schools. Police were called on Thursday, 5 February, after the ammunition was found during school hours.
Investigations revealed that the rounds belonged to a 37-year-old male relative living in the same household. A search of the family home and nearby bushes uncovered an unlicensed firearm hidden in a holster, a magazine, 39 more rounds of ammunition, and several empty cartridges.
The relative was arrested and charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. He is expected to appear in the Malamulele Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 9 February.
Limpopo provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe praised the swift response by police and school authorities, warning that illegal firearms, especially where children are involved, pose a serious threat to schools and communities.
Police spokesperson Col Malesela Ledwaba said the incident showed how easily weapons kept at home can end up in schools.
“When ammunition ends up at a school, it puts learners, educators, and communities at risk,” Ledwaba said.
Investigations are continuing, and more arrests are expected.