North West SAPS nab six suspects accused of violent crimes

The South African Police Service in the North West Province have reported the arrest of six suspected criminals charged with a range of offenses that include armed robbery, assault and attempted murder.

North West SAPS lauded for getting violent criminals off streets

A SAPS spokesperson also revealed that officers recovered stolen and unregistered firearms.

“In Stella near Vryburg, two suspects aged 21 and 33 were arrested on Wednesday, 30 December 2020,” Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said.

“It is alleged that a farm owner returned home on Tuesday, 29 December 2020, after Christmas holidays and realised that intruders broke a window, then gained entrance into his house where they stole a revolver and a hunting rifle with 200 ammunition from the safe. Police Investigation was conducted leading to recovery of the rifle and 200 ammunition after being found hidden in the bushes. 

“Investigation into the matter continues and the pair is expected to appear on Monday, 4 January 2021, in the Vryburg Magistrates’ Court for burglary, theft and possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.”

Police also confirmed the arrest of a 32-year-old suspect in connection with an attempted murder in Setlopo village in the policing area of Lomanyaneng.

“In Mmabatho, a 32-year-old suspect is also expected to appear on Monday, 4 January 2021, in the Molopo Magistrates’ Court for possession of unlicensed firearm and attempted murder,” Brigadier Mokgwabone added.

“The suspect’s court appearance stems from his arrest in Magogwe-Tshepang village during the crime intelligence driven Safer Festive Season operation at about 23:00 on Wednesday, 29 December 2020. 

“The suspect was in the course of the arrest, found in possession of a revolver, three ammunition and two empty cartridges. Preliminary investigation has since linked the suspect to a case of attempted murder committed early last month in Setlopo village in the policing area of Lomanyaneng.”

Alleged armed robbers in court

A trio of young men will appear in the Delarayville Magistrate’s on Monday 4 January in connection with the armed robbery of a 17-year-old girl.

“In Delareyville, Taukobong Mothobi (21), Matimba Mmokwa (18), and a 17-year-old accused appeared in the local Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 31 December 2020, facing a charge of common robbery,” Brigadier Mokgwabone said. 

“Mothobi is facing an additional charge of possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. All three accused were remanded in custody and will reappear on Monday, 4 January 2021. 

“The trio appeared in court after they were arrested for allegedly robbing a girl, aged 17, of her cell phone while walking from town with her brother. The girl and her brother were allegedly threatened with a knife by the suspects who robbed the girl of her cell phone before fleeing from the scene. Upon arrest, Mothobi who is known to the 17-year-old girl’s brother, was found in possession of unlicensed firearm (pistol) and ammunition.”

North West SAPS Commissioner Lieutenant General Sello Kwena applauded the police for their diligence and ensuring that the accused were apprehended and disarmed of illegal firearms. The Lieutenant General once more reminded the public about the firearm amnesty period which will end on 31 January 2021.