Stuart Sharnick to remain in custody as firearms case set for September bail hearing

Controversial businessman Stuart James Sharnick remains in custody after a brief appearance on firearms-related charges at the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

Arrest and charges

Sharnick, 40, was arrested in Pretoria last week. The charges arise from an investigation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) into compliance with firearm storage and registration requirements.

Police inspections and alleged offences

Gauteng spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Magaboke Mohlatlole, said police officials visited Sharnick’s residential address in Douglasdale to inspect his firearms but were unable to locate him. Mohlatlole said officers “subsequently discovered that he had relocated to another residence without notifying the Central Firearms Registry of his change of address, as required by law.”

Police then proceeded to Sharnick’s new residence, which belongs to his partner. During the inspection, officers allegedly found that one of his firearms was not stored in a prescribed safe, contrary to the requirements of the Firearms Control Act.

NPA statement and next steps

The NPA said:

“The NPA remains committed to ensuring that matters involving alleged firearms-related offences are prosecuted fairly, efficiently, and in accordance with the law. Compliance with firearm control legislation is essential to promoting public safety and accountability among firearm owners.”

The matter has been postponed until 1 September for a formal bail application. Sharnick remains in custody.

Related recent incident

Sharnick was also arrested by police last week after allegedly intimidating a Sowetan journalist following footage of him interacting with Fadiel Adams at the Madlanga Commission.