Four men were arrested after they were found in possession of unlicensed firearms in Houghton on Monday, Johannesburg police said.

"The men, who were seen driving a silver Toyota, sped off when they saw a patrolling police vehicle approaching them. One of the men had an R5 rifle in his hand," said Captain Phillip Maganedisa.

A shot was fired towards the police during a high speed car chase. The men were eventually cornered in Gold Reef City around 9.30pm after back-up was called, said Maganedisa.

In the car, police found the rifle, and AK47, a 9mm pistol and a total of 185 rounds of ammunition.

Maganedisa said the men, aged 36, 39, 29 and 40, would appear in court soon.

Sapa