Lentswe, Klerksdorp - A local businessman was kidnapped earlier this month and his body was found at a dam on the outskirts of Orkney last week. A multidisciplinary intelligence driven operation involving the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit, Organised Crime Unit, Provincial Detectives, Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), Klerksdorp Tactical Response Team (TRT), led to the arrest of suspects who were linked with the kidnapping and robbery of Hasani Daniel Maluleka (62) in Wilkoppies.
The suspects have now been charged with murder after they dumped his body after killing him. Julia Kolobi (47), Mcdonald Tsolo (39), Bongani Rampai (43), Thabo Motlatsi (50) and Kagiso Wageng (37) appeared in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday April 22, facing charges of kidnapping, house robbery and murder. They will remain in custody until their next appearance on Wednesday April 30, for legal representation and a bail application.
“The group’s arrests came after a team was activated after his former girlfriend failed to reach him on his cellphone on April 11. Preliminary investigations established that his Mercedes Benz and Toyota Hilux vehicles were missing and that the house has been ransacked. It came to light during investigations that a substantial amount of money was withdrawn from his bank account,” said Brig Sabata Mokgwabone, police spokesperson.
He said the team’s efforts led to the arrest of Julia Kolobi at Extension 10, Jouberton on Sunday April 13.
The other four suspects were arrested in Sebokeng and Kanana between April 19 and 20. The team confiscated a Volkswagen Tiguan and Golf vehicles, which are believed to have been used in the commission of the crimes. Furthermore, the team recovered the victim’s car keys, a laptop and unlicensed 9mm firearm with ammunition. In addition, the team recovered the victim’s Mercedes Benz in Evaton.
Investigations into the matter continues.
