Stuart Sharnick remains behind bars on firearms-related charges

Controversial businessman Stuart James Sharnick appeared in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on firearms-related charges on Monday.

The Gauteng spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Magaboke Mohlatlole, confirmed Sharnick’s brief appearance.

Scharnick faces charges arising from an investigation conducted by the South African Police Service (SAPS) relating to compliance with firearm storage and registration requirements.

It is alleged that police officials sought to inspect his firearms and visited his residential address in Douglasdale.

“Upon arriving at the address, they were unable to locate him and subsequently discovered that he had relocated to another residence without notifying the Central Firearms Registry of his change of address, as required by law,” Mohlatlole said.

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.

“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,” Mohlatlole said.

The case has been postponed until September 1, for a formal bail application.

Sharnick was also arrested by police last week after intimidating a Sowetan journalist after he was filmed interacting with Fadiel Adams at the Madlanga Commission.