By BAKANG MOKOTO

Four illegal miners are arrested for three counts of attempted murder, three counts of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, and one count of malicious damage to property. 

This comes after 100 of illegal miners commonly known as ‘zama-zamas’ were spotted near shaft 4 in Vaal Reefs near Stilfontein on Thursday. The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said, some of illegal miners allegedly fired shots toward the Specialised Services Group (SSG) security officers.

“The latter returned fire and one suspect was wounded. A Beretta semi-automatic shotgun and 18 ammunition were found next to him. Subsequently, the police from the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Illicit Mining Task Team and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) were mobilised.

“The operation ultimately led to the arrest of three more suspects and police confiscated two firearms with ammunition. The wounded suspect is under police guard in hospital, while the rest of the ‘zama zamas’ fled on foot.

Mokgwabone said those who are arrested are also facing additional charges of contravention of Section 49 (1)(a) & (b) of the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002). He said the matter is investigated by the DPCI.

The suspects are expected to appear at Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court on Monday.   

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena lauded the police and security officers for their cooperation, which led to the arrest and confiscation of the firearms and ammunition. Kwena strongly warned that illicit economic activities will not be tolerated and that those involved, will be dealt with harshly.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By OBAKENG MAJE

A murder case against Rebaone Malekanyo (32) and Tumelo Tlonkwe (31) was transferred to the Taung Regional Court on Thursday. Two accused were arrested for premeditated murder, assault, kidnapping, and defeating the ends of justice.

Malekanyo and Tlonkwe alleged killed the former Vaaltar FM presenter and a socialite, Tshepang Seelo (32).

The atrocity took place in Modimong village, near Taung on 31 October 2021. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in the North West, Henry Mamothame, Seelo was allegedly walking from a local tavern with his girlfriend when he was attacked.

The deceased allegedly saw the duo stealing roof sheets from a certain house and called them out. Malekanyo and Tlonkwe allegedly assaulted, kidnapped and killed him before dumping his body. Seelo’s lifeless body was found floating in a furrow in Khibitswane village near Taung on 3 November 2021.

It is alleged that his body was mutilated and his eyes and tongue were missing.

“The two accused were arrested on 2 November 2021 after they handed themselves over to the police. The accused will remain in police custody until their next court appearance,” Mamothame said.

Seelo’s girlfriend allegedly ran away and escaped unharmed. The murder case was postponed until 29 September 2022.

taungdailynews@gmail.com