Farm Attacks Plot Latest: Manhunt for suspects, one arrested

A 34-year-old  Zimbabwean appeared in the Bafokeng Magistrates’ Court in Tlhabane to face charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm, ammunition and explosive gel after police swooped on him averting a possible farm attack.

Paulos Chitoto, 34, appeared in court following his arrest by the police who received a tip off from several whistleblowers about a planned farm housebreaking in the area. 

National Prosecuting Authority North West Province spokesperson Henry Mamothame said that the police had been tipped off by members of the community that the suspect was in the process of planning a housebreaking at a farm in the Swartregguns area. 

“The accused was intercepted by the police near Rietvellie graveyard in Phokeng outside Rustenburg and two of his accomplices managed to flee. A 9 mm pistol, live ammunition magazine and an explosive gel were found inside the Toyota Prada that the suspects were travelling in,” he said.

Mamothame said that the police had launched a manhunt for the other two suspects who remained at large.

Chitoto appeared in court this week where he abandoned his bail application. 

The case was postponed for further investigation until 11 October 2021

The accused will remain in police custody until his next court appearance.