POLOKWANE – A former Polokwane police volunteer has been charged with theft after reportedly removing more than 88 firearms from a security company in Ladanna over a three-month period.

Modikana Mmapa (27) was arrested by the Polokwane police on Sunday and appeared in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday for profiling.

According to court documents, Mmapa introduced himself to the owner of a security company in the Polokwane industrial area as a firearm inspector attached to the Polokwane Police Station.

He had previously been involved with the Young Civilians on Patrol (Y-Cop) programme, which works with police and community structures to assist with crime prevention and safety initiatives.

Contract ended in 2024

Court documents further indicate that he was later employed on a contract basis as a general firearms officer, an administrative position involving the renewal of firearm and liquor licences.

His contract ended in 2024. Despite the termination of his contract, Mmapa remained in contact with security companies and continued offering to facilitate firearm inspections.

Firearms collected in batches

It is alleged that between May and July this year, he collected firearms from the security company in batches, claiming that they were required for inspection.

Police investigations have since led to the recovery of five of the firearms from four Zimbabwean nationals.

One of the firearms was recovered on Tuesday night, shortly after Mmapa appeared in court. A second suspect was subsequently arrested.

Police have also reportedly linked two vehicles allegedly used in the commission of the offence to a Zimbabwean national.

The circumstances surrounding the removal and subsequent distribution of the firearms remain under investigation.

Police comment pending

Polokwane Observer contacted police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba on Monday for comment on the allegations against Mmapa, including his previous association with the police and the circumstances under which the theft was uncovered.

Questions were also sent to Mashaba regarding the identity of the affected security company and the police investigation. He indicated that he would respond. His response will be published once received.