Three men were arrested for being in possession of a suspected illegal firearm and conspiracy to commit a crime. Tebogo Bojang (43), Masabata Lesolle (34), and Katlego Mantjane (29) brief appearances before the Vryburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.
The North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane said, the police in Vryburg received a tip-off about three men travelling in a blue Toyota Avanza, driving from Madibogo village towards Vryburg.
“The K9 Unit, Public Order Police and Vryburg Detectives were mobilised and the vehicle was found parked in front of a Pub in Vryburg. Three occupants as well as the vehicle were searched and police found hand gloves, a balaclava, and a 9mm pistol hidden in the vehicle.
“All three suspects were immediately arrested. The trio was remanded in custody until their next appearance on Monday for a formal bail application. Investigation into the matter continues,” Tselanyane said.
Most people will be going on holiday to unwind and spend time with their families and friends. However, the North West police urge them to be cautious and safe at all times. The North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh encourages those who will be travelling or leaving their homes unattended to apply safety measures.
“We have shared some tips on how to be safe at home, on the road and while having fun. This year’s Safer Festive Season Operations commenced on 11 November 2022 and will continue until 31 January 2023. In order to be vigilant, the public is urged to keep their homes safe in their absence or ask their neighbours to take out the post.
“Post left in the mailbox says that nobody is home. Make sure they have good lighting and do not leave the outside lights on during the day. Those who will be travelling, should not let too many people know when are they going on holiday, but to only those whom they trust,” Myburgh said.
She further said, they should ensure that their doors are locked properly and have burglar bars. Myburgh added, if your house is broken into, notify the police immediately.
“If you are going on a road trip, kindly buckle up and should not drink and drive. While on the road, keep a safe following distance and they should not use up their energy on activities, which will increase fatigue. We also advise them to get enough sleep the night before, at least six hours.
“Please plan your trip, the route you will travel and where you will stop and rest overnight. You should also make sure that your vehicle is roadworthy. Motorists should make sure that they have a spare wheel and it is in good condition with the necessary tools to change a tyre,” she said.
Myburgh said, people should make sure their luggage is in the boot and it closes properly. She said it is advisable to stop every two hours and take 15-minute breaks.
“If the driver feels tired or restless, they shall pull over at a safe stop and rest for a little. If they are travelling at night, they should be on the lookout for suspicious-looking people or vehicles.
“Know where you are going and do not use unfamiliar routes to get home. Lock your doors and close your windows. If you are bumped from behind, head to the nearest police station or place of safety. Also, never leave keys in your ignition to open gates,” said Myburgh.
She said it is advisable not to wait for passenger/s, but the driver may rather drive around the block or get out of the car and lock the doors. Myurgh said motorists should not pick up hitch-hikers or get out to assist someone, who seems to be in trouble, but rather inform the police.
“Those who will be shopping should avoid carrying large amounts of money. They also should not leave valuable belongings in the trolley. It is also important not to have your wallet or purse visible. Kindly keep it in a front pocket, instead of the back pocket.
“Do not let money be too visible, especially large amounts. For those who will be shopping with their children, we advise that, they hold the children’s hands and be alert of them at all times. It is best to always accompany them to the bathroom,” she said.
Myburgh added: “If you are part of a stokvel society or group, do not withdraw all the money in order to distribute it. Rather pay it into the different bank accounts of the participants through an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT).”
TaungDailyNews 