By BAKANG MOKOTO
22 October 2025- Three accused, Melton Francois Mapsanganhe (35), Boa Camaroes Koza (39) and Aobake Johnson Gwayisa (23), were remanded in custody until 27 October 2025. The trio briefly appeared in the Ventersdorp Magistrate’s Court on 20 October 2025, for possession of suspected stolen goats.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said the accused’s court appearance emanated from their apprehension on Thursday morning, 16 October 2025, after 26 goats, including two that were already dead, were found inside their Toyota Quantum. Myburgh said according to information, traffic officials were conducting their daily patrols on the N14 road between Ventersdorp and Coligny when they stopped the Quantum along the road and discovered the goats.
“The traffic officers also found other stolen property, including clothing in their vehicle. The trio failed to account for the livestock and were immediately arrested. Investigations conducted by the Stilfontein Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit (STES), positively identified the owner of the goats in Mmabatho.
“It was also determined that two of the accused (Koza and Gwayisa) are from Mozambique and illegally in the country. As a result, they will be facing additional charges of contravention of Section 49(1)(a) of the Immigration Act, 2002,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Ryno Naidoo, congratulated the traffic officers for their vigilance that led to the interception of the trio, and indicated that the police and other JOINTS role players will continue to work hard together in the combating of crime including stock theft.
The Guardian 