A close-knit community on the East Rand is stunned by the arrest of the occupant of a house where police earlier today uncovered a store of arms and ammunition.

Police raided a house in Katlehong, east of Johannesburg in the early hours of Tuesday.

National Police Commissioner Bheki Cele briefed journalists on the raid and said he feels good about the arrest.

"It is a Christmas present. Those guys had arms and they were prepared to go to war," said Cele.

Two bazookas, two AK 47's, an F1, a silencer and thousands of rounds of ammunition were seized.

He said the weapons are mostly used in assassinations and during robberies of malls and banks.

"These guys don't carry broomsticks. The guns are for elimination should anyone come their way as they do their dirty work," said Cele.

A neighbour, who did not want to be named, said the occupants of the house had been living there for years.

"I grew up with the kids of the house, but the family keeps to themselves," said the neighbour.

The neighbour said he was surprised when the mother of the house was taken into custody by the police.