BY Obakeng Maje

Klerksdorp- The court was packed to rafters on Tuesday for the appearance of Local government MEC China Dodovu who has become the latest high profile figure to be arrested in connection with the callous murder of ANC regional secretary, Obuti Chika.

Dodovu was arrested in Potchefstroom on Monday afternoon following extensive investigations by the Hawks.

His arrest followed that of seven other suspects who are still in custody in Klerksdorp.

Magistrate postponed Dodovu’s case until tomorrow where he will be joining other suspects for similar offence.
“I can confirm that he (Dodovu) has been arrested in Potchefstroom but it’s not clear if it was at his home or office.

“He is now in police custody and will appear in court tomorrow after postponement,” he said.

Asked if Dodovu was the “big fish” the crowd in Klerksdorp was speaking about during the appearance of the seven other suspects, Ramaloko said it was too early to tell.

He said investigations were continuing and more arrests were expected.

“The arrest was part of follow-up to investigation since the first suspect was nabbed. We are still investigating,” he said.

Ramaloko further said that the R200000 reward was still up for grabs and members of the public should come forward and present information or tips that may lead to the successful arrest and prosecution of those involved in Chika’s murder.

Dodovu is the deputy ANC provincial chairperson and his arrest has brought shock waves to the province.

Provincial ANC spokesperson Kenny Morolong said: “We commend the police on their efforts in dealing with Chika’s murder and we believe the legal process should run its course without impediment. At an appropriate time, the provincial executive council will issue out a statement.”

He said that the party believed in the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise by the courts.

Chika, 34, was gunned down at his Alabama home in Klerksdorp on the eve of the ANC elective conference in December last year.

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