Three suspects were arrested during coordinated crime-prevention operations in the Nkangala District after firearms were found at a house in Middelburg and drugs were seized in a separate operation in Belfast.

During the Middelburg operation, a rifle, two pistols and six rounds of ammunition were discovered inside a house.

According to a press release issued by the provincial police, the property was previously occupied by a military reservist who has since passed away. The firearms are believed to be linked to the South African National Defence Force.

In Belfast, drugs were seized during a separate operation, leading to arrests. The suspects, aged between 35 and 42, were arrested on charges related to drug dealing, possession of drugs and possession of suspected stolen property.

The suspects were granted police bail and have not yet appeared in court. As a result, their names cannot be disclosed at this stage.

Police said the operations form part of ongoing efforts to combat crime and remove illegal firearms and drugs from communities across the district.