Lentswe, Klerksdorp - Letlhogonolo Molefi (39) appeared in the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court on charges of intimidation, extortion and obstruction at a construction site. Molefe was arrested on July 23, during an undercover operation by the Provincial Organised Crime and Crime Intelligence working together with Klerksdorp Tactical Response Team (TRT).
“According to information, Provincial Organised Crime received information from a contractor who was installing fibre on the N12 between Klerksdorp and Wolmaransstad as well as between Klerksdorp and Potchefstroom, about community members who were intimidating them.
The contractor was allegedly approached by two males who introduced themselves as representatives of the Klerksdorp community and demanded jobs. Furthermore, the suspects demanded immediate payment R50 000 protection fee. The victim was also instructed to leave the site and to come back when they have money to pay the suspects.
It is alleged that the victims abandoned the site for five days, but the suspects kept on calling him about the payment.
“Molefe was eventually arrested in Klerksdorp during an undercover operation and found in possession of the money,” said Lt-Col Amanda Funani, police spokesperson.
The accused was remanded in custody until August 27, for formal bail application.
