By OBAKENG MAJE
10 January 2025- A terror financing case against the accused, Ziyahd Hoorzook (35), has been postponed by the Lichtenburg Magistrate’s Court until 15 January 2025, for further bail application. Hoorzook is facing multiple charges under the Protection of Constitutional Democracy against Terrorist and Related Activities Act 33 of 2004 (POCDATARA), including six alternative counts for contravening Section 4(1)(f)(ii) of the Act.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said additional charges include contravening the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act 15 of 1998 and the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000 for failing to secure firearms in the prescribed manner.
“During court proceedings, it emerged that on 30 November 2017, Hoorzook allegedly transferred R11,500 in cryptocurrency to a Bitcoin account. Investigations revealed that this transaction was linked to foreign military assistance provided to an organisation alleged to be involved in terrorist activities.
“On 3 October 2024, the police searched his residence, where they discovered two licensed firearms that were not secured in a safe as required by law. Hoorzook was subsequently arrested on 3 January 2025 and has remained in custody since,” said Gunya.
Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended the collaboration between the NPA and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI), that culminated in the accused’s court appearance.
The Guardian 