Picture: Two vehicles allegedly used during commission of crime confiscated/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
Seven suspects were arrested for robbery and impersonating a police officer. Shadrack Haphane (39), Pule Meshack Nteo (50), Ben Sepato (45), Ronny Pelesane (30), Mooketsi Moses Mothi (47), Bongani Ndongane (35) and Remaketse Rosy Kobo (35) were arrested during a crime intelligence driven operation by the members of Potchefstroom Flying Squad on Tuesday.
North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane said the police received a tip-off about the suspects, who were involved in fraudulent municipality tenders, wherein unsuspecting clients were lured to avail themselves to sign tender documents.
“One of the victims was allegedly made to believe that he was going to sign a Solar Geysers contract worth R17 million. However, he was pointed with a firearm and held hostage together with his two friends at a house in Extension 17, near Tswelelang Township, in Wolmaranstad.
“Subsequent to operationalising the information, the police pounced on the suspects and confiscated several items that included cellular phones, SAPS appointment certificates, SAPS tracksuit top, SAPS face mask, SAPS bunny jacket, SAPS pocket book, 1 x 9mm magazine with 15 ammunition, undisclosed amount of cash and two vehicles (Volkswagen Polo and BMW),” he said.
Tselanyane further said the accused persons briefly appeared before the Wolmaranstad magistrate’s Court on 3 August 2023. He added that they were remanded in custody for further investigation and formal bail application.
“Their case was postponed until 10 August 2023, facing additional charges of assault, extortion and fraud. The investigation into the matter continues,” said Tselanyane.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena welcomed the arrest and thanked all members involved for their quick response, which led to the arrest and confiscation of the goods. Kwena said no mercy will be shown to criminals.
The Guardian 