BONUS - RUSTENBURG/MOOINOOI - Firearm related crime seems to be on the increase around the country.
Organzo Phenza Mbombe (37) appeared before the Brits Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 19 February 2024 on a charge of being in possession of an unlicensed firearm.
He was remanded in custody and will re-appear before the same court on Monday, 26 February 2024.
Furthermore, Organzo Phenza Mbombe (37), Obvious Moyo (24) and Prince Njove (30) made an appearance in the Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court also on Monday, 19 February 2024, facing charges of armed robbery and extortion. They were all remanded in custody until Thursday 29 February 2024, for a formal bail application. The accused were arrested during a crime intelligence-driven operation conducted by Provincial Crime Intelligence, Rustenburg Trio Task Team, Mooinooi police and Marikana police on Friday, 16 February 2024.
According to information received, three armed robberies were reported between 24 December 2023 and 1 January 2024. Allegedly victims, who went hiking at nature resorts in the Marikana area, were overpowered by suspects, who threatened them with firearms and robbed them of various items, including a firearm, cellular phones, video camera shoes and clothing. Furthermore, the victims were forced to electronically transfer money via cellular phone/ E-wallet before they were released by the suspects.
Intensive investigations by Crime Intelligence led to the identification of the suspects, who were traced and arrested. The team also managed to recover robbed property, including a firearm. A toy gun suspected to be used during the commission of the crime, was also seized.
The Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, congratulated all the South African Police Service (SAPS) units involved for their efforts and dedication, which resulted in the apprehension of the accused. He said tourists contribute to the economy and must be protected at all times.
