By Obakeng Maje

Zeerust-A police officer sentenced to three years yesterday by Zeerust Magistrate’s Court.

“Warrant Officer Ofentse Joel Gaotime (45) was sanctioned to three years imprisonment on Friday for livestock theft amounting to R10 000 00”.  

“The owner of the calves allegedly received a tip-off from member of community about commission of crime taking place at hís farm” colonel Sabata Mokgwabone said.

On December 2010 the owner of the calves allegedly received a tip-off about two people stealing his calves. He allegedly went to investigate and found three calves loaded in a minibus.

“Police were informed and through investigations, they found the said vehicle parked in Ikageleng, at Gaotime’s house with three stolen calves inside” Mokgwabone said. 

Three suspects were immediately arrested and charged with possession of suspected stolen livestock. 

“One of the suspects was discharged as he could not be linked to the case while the other one was sentenced to one year imprisonment of which was suspended for five years in 2011” he said. 

The police would like to send out a message that crime does not pay as they can also arrest one of their own and that criminal activities will not tolerated within South African Police Service.

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