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You carry a firearm. Do you have a plan for what comes next?

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According to a written parliamentary reply by Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia in July 2026, 41,297 people were murdered using unlicensed firearms during the four financial years from 2022/23 to 2025/26. According to his reply, during the same period, 393 people were murdered using firearms legally owned by licensed individuals. In other words, approximately 99.1% of the firearm-related murders recorded in these figures involved unlicensed firearms, compared with 0.9% involving firearms licensed to the owner.

Category - Firearms, Self defence

Courageous Firearm Owner Stops Hijacking Attempt on N1 Highway

In yet another dramatic example of why legal firearm ownership and proper training are vital in South Africa, a quick-thinking firearm owner successfully defended himself during a violent hijacking attempt on the N1 highway near Johannesburg.

Hijacking Attempt at Diepkloof Interchange

On 29 October, near the Diepkloof interchange south of Johannesburg, a white bakkie driver was forced to stop after being signalled by occupants of two vehicles posing as law enforcement officers. When the victim investigated a supposed problem under his vehicle, he was confronted by hijackers armed with knives, who threatened to steal his bakkie.

Thanks to his firearm, carried legally and worn on his waist, the victim reacted swiftly and fatally shot all three hijackers attempting to take his vehicle.

Fleeing Hijackers Fire Shots

As the hijackers fled, suspects in the second vehicle opened fire on the victim. Police are currently investigating the case, which includes charges of murder, attempted murder, and attempted hijacking.

Expert Legal Insight on Self-Defence

Dr. Lewellyn Curlewis, Firearms Guardian’s criminal law expert, commented on the legal implications:

“Whether or not the firearm owner will be prosecuted is at the discretion of SAPS and ultimately the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). Assuming the victim’s account is accurate, he would likely rely on established legal grounds of self-defence to avoid conviction. With proper legal representation, responsible firearm owners in such situations have nothing to fear.”

The Importance of Firearm Training and Legal Preparedness

This incident underscores the crucial need for firearm owners in South Africa to be well-trained and mentally prepared for high-pressure situations. The victim’s composure and skill under extreme stress undoubtedly saved his life and prevented the hijacking.

At Firearms Guardian, we are committed to supporting responsible gun owners by providing not only legal protection but also emphasizing the importance of regular firearm training.

See our benefits and ensure your family’s safety

The Firearms Guardian policy is administered by Firearms Guardian (Pty) Ltd (FSP47115), an authorised Financial Services Provider, and underwritten by GENRIC Insurance Company Limited (FSP43638), a licensed non-life insurer.

Disclaimer. This article is general information published on . It is not financial, legal or firearms-licensing advice, it takes no account of your circumstances, and any recommendation in it may be wrong for you. The law and product terms change and we do not undertake to update this article. Nothing here creates or varies your insurance cover, and your insurance policy wording and schedule prevail. Obtain your own professional advice before acting. Our full Website Content Disclaimer applies, and limits our liability.

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