Picture: One of the accused persons, Paul Pokes Mabe/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
A stock theft case against two accused persons from Tlola O Nyele Section in Khibitswane village, near Taung, will resume today. The case was postponed on Monday due to a water shortage at the Taung Magistrate’s Court. Paul Pokes Mabe (46) and his wife, Gladys Machwe (40) were arrested on 6 May 2023 for allegedly stealing two cows back in November 2022.
According to the North West police spokesperson in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen, a stock theft case was opened by the rightful owner of two cattle after they were allegedly stolen in Cokonyane village.
“As the investigation progressed, information was obtained, which led to the recovery of the two cattle at Matsheng village in January 2023. Further investigation was done and led to the arrest of two accused, who were positively linked to the stock theft case.
“The third suspect was still at large and the accused persons briefly appeared at the Taung Magistrate’s Court on Monday last week. They were remanded in custody until 15 May 2023 for a formal bail application. The alleged stolen cattle were handed back to the rightful owner after being identified by the brand mark,” she said.
Yesterday, Mabe briefly appeared in court with another accused, who is believed to be the third person who was reported to be at large. According to information, charges against Machwe were provisional withdrawn pending investigations.
The Guardian 