Teen Weapons Fanatic Busted with Bombs and Guns After Family Fallout
Domestic Drama Uncovers Deadly Arsenal
Police arrived at 18-year-old Sakhile Ntsele’s London home on Wandsworth Road after a violent family row on 27 October. The youth had sprayed a relative with antibacterial cleaner before lunging at them with a homemade metal bar sword.
That bizarre weapon sparked urgent concerns. Officers called in a firearms detection dog and searched Ntsele’s room. What they found was chilling — seven improvised explosive devices (IEDs), five firearms, and plenty of ammo.
Obsessed with Explosives and Firearms
Detective Inspector Raymond Sekalongo revealed the disturbing details:
“Ntsele was completely obsessed with weapons, teaching himself how to make explosives and firearms. He spent hours every day watching weapon-building videos online, manipulating those around him so no one knew the terrifying extent of what he was doing.”
“We don’t know exactly what harm he planned, but our team made sure he won’t be a threat to anyone’s safety.”
“The case highlights how easy it is for youngsters to access dangerous material online. We urge parents to monitor what their children are into to keep them out of trouble.”
Years of Trouble with Guns
Ntsele’s criminal history runs deep. At just 14, police caught him with 55 rounds of ammunition, some booby-trapped with nails. That case was dropped in 2023 — but after his latest bust, those charges were revived alongside fresh, serious offences.
Investigators uncovered how Ntsele spent hundreds of hours online learning to craft explosives and shotgun shells. He bought hazardous materials like steel balls and potassium nitrate using fake names and family credit cards to hide his trail.
Earlier this year, he even sent videos of a fully operational homemade gun—made from wood and pipes—to a friend. Officers seized the weapon, confirming its deadly potential.
Convicted for Explosives and Firearm Offences
- Facing 26 charges, including making explosives with intent and possessing firearms without certificates
- Pleading guilty in November to ammunition and firearm possession without certificates
- Found guilty in December trial of eight counts related to making explosives for unlawful purposes
- Acquitted on some lesser charges
Ntsele is set for sentencing in February 2026. Police warn this case is a stark reminder: weapon-making secrets are just a click away online — and the fallout can be deadly.
