In a dramatic turn of events outside the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court, two bodyguards—aged 24 and 36—were arrested after being found in possession of two semi-automatic AKM rifles and a significant quantity of ammunition without valid permits. The incident, which unfolded earlier today, has raised serious questions about security protocols surrounding high-profile court appearances and the growing concerns over illegal firearms circulating in the country.
According to initial reports, the pair was allegedly assigned to escort *Katiso Molefe*, an accused individual who was scheduled to appear in court on undisclosed charges. Their presence drew immediate attention from law enforcement officers stationed in the vicinity, prompting a routine inspection that quickly escalated into a criminal investigation.
Police spokespersons confirmed that upon searching the vehicle used by the suspects, officers discovered the two AKM rifles, along with ammunition believed to be intended for close-protection operations. However, both men failed to produce any legal documentation authorizing them to possess or transport the firearms. This failure resulted in their immediate arrest under South Africa’s stringent firearm control regulations.
The situation took an even more suspicious turn when authorities conducted a further inspection of the vehicle the men were traveling in. Police noted that the license disk displayed on the windscreen did not correspond with the registration plates attached to the vehicle. This discrepancy raised additional red flags, suggesting the possibility that the vehicle may have been illegally acquired, tampered with, or used for activities beyond lawful bodyguard duties. As a result, the vehicle was seized pending further forensic and administrative investigations.
Officials at the scene emphasized that possessing high-powered firearms such as AKM rifles without proper permits poses a serious threat to community safety, particularly in and around critical institutions like courthouses. The discovery has intensified concerns about the level of weaponry circulating among private security personnel and unregistered protection teams operating without oversight.
Authorities have confirmed that the two suspects are currently facing multiple charges, including possession of unlicensed firearms, possession of ammunition without a permit, and the use of a vehicle displaying fraudulent licensing information. Additional charges may be added as the investigation progresses.
Law enforcement officials are also expected to question *Katiso Molefe*, the accused person whom the bodyguards were accompanying, to determine whether he had any knowledge of the illegal firearms or the irregular status of the vehicle. At this stage, no direct link has been established, but investigators are exploring all possible connections.
The arrests have sparked renewed calls for stricter enforcement within the private security industry, which plays a major role in South Africa’s safety landscape. Concerns continue to mount over improperly trained or unregulated bodyguards who may be carrying illegal weapons under the guise of providing protection.
Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity involving unregistered security personnel or firearms. The investigation remains ongoing, with updates expected as more information becomes available.
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