Two Men Arrested After Viral Video Shows Women Handling Guns In SA
South African police have arrested two men linked to firearms seen in a viral social media video showing women allegedly handling and cocking guns inside a house. Police say the firearms were unlicensed and that the suspects were also found with a hijacked vehicle during the operation.
The arrests were announced by the South African Police Service (SAPS) on Thursday, 15 May 2026, after the video spread widely online and triggered public concern.
Police Hunt For Women Seen In Viral Video
In statements shared on X, SAPS confirmed that the two suspects, aged 21 and 34, had been arrested in connection with the firearms featured in the clip.
Police said:
“The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested two men linked to firearms seen in a viral video circulating on social media in which women are seen recklessly and negligently handling firearms.”
Authorities added that the weapons shown in the footage had been confiscated during the operation.
According to SAPS, preliminary investigations showed that the firearms were not legally licensed.
Police also confirmed another serious discovery during the arrests.
“During the operation, the suspects were also found in possession of a hijacked vehicle.”
The suspects now face charges linked to the alleged illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, contravention of the Firearms Control Act, and possession of a hijacked motor vehicle.
The two men are expected to appear before the Tembisa Magistrate’s Court next week.
SAPS Warns Public About Reckless Gun Handling
Before the arrests were announced, SAPS had already issued a public warning about the now-viral clip.
In an earlier statement shared on 15 May 2026, police expressed concern over the footage and warned about the dangers linked to firearms being used irresponsibly for social media content.
SAPS said:
“The reckless handling and misuse of firearms pose a serious danger to both the individuals involved and members of the public.”
Police also reminded South Africans that guns should never be treated as entertainment props.
“Firearms are not toys and should never be used recklessly, displayed irresponsibly, or handled for entertainment purposes, including for social media content.”
The warning quickly gained traction online as the video continued circulating across social media platforms.
Investigations Continue
Police say investigations are still underway to locate the women seen in the video.
The authorities have urged members of the public to assist by reporting illegal firearms or reckless gun handling to police stations or through the Crime Stop hotline.
The case has since sparked intense debate online, with many social media users reacting to both the arrests and the viral footage itself.