By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
The accused, Samuel Ngonyamo (42) was sentenced to eight years imprisonment by the Ventersdorp Magistrate’s Court for contravention of Immigration Act 13 of 2002, and unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition, while Oliah Mthethwa (44) was sentenced to three months imprisonment for contravention of Immigration Act 13 of 2002, or legible to pay a R1000 fine.
In October 2023, members of the Tactical Response Team (TRT) received a tip-off regarding two men who were alleged to be in possession of a firearm, near a certain restaurant in Ventersdorp.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Sivenathi Gunya said the information was operationalised and the police searched a bag the duo was carrying. Gunya said inside the bag, an AK 47 rifle with magazine and ammunition were allegedly found.
“It was also established that the suspects did not possess documents to be in the country and were subsequently apprehended. The accused were denied bail and following a series of court appearances, they were eventually sentenced.
“The court has ordered that the duo be deported to their country of origin after the completion of their sentences,” he said.
Meanwhile, the North West Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Patrick Mbotho and the Director of Public Prosecutions in North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, lauded the investigation and prosecution team for ensuring that the accused are brought to book.
The Guardian 