Bail Hearing Of Police Officers Accused In R20m Llandudno Jewellery Heist Unfolds With Shocking Testimonies

Four police officers accused of involvement in a high-profile jewellery heist in Cape Town appeared at the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on Friday for their bail hearing.

The accused — Jacobus Groenewald (44), Bradley Minnaar (28), Mthuthuzeli Mafanya (33), and Bathandwa Soldati (38) — face charges of aggravated robbery after jewellery worth R20 million was allegedly stolen from a luxury Llandudno property on September 14.

The hearing delved into the chaotic events surrounding the alleged heist. Soldati, the last of the accused to testify, provided a detailed account of the night in question. While he denied involvement in the theft, he admitted to being present at the scene, stating that he and his co-accused were pursuing suspects wanted by Interpol.

The Night Llandudno Jewellery Heist

According to Soldati, the events began when Minnaar gave him a lift home to Philippi around 11 p.m. Groenewald then called, requesting assistance with a case in Nyanga. The officers, joined by Mafanya, convened at Wynberg Park, where Groenewald informed them of two Nigerians allegedly linked to Interpol and hiding in Hout Bay.

The information, purportedly provided by informants, implicated the suspects in drug and jewellery-related scams. The group, accompanied by the informants, proceeded to a residence in Llandudno.

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Upon arrival, Soldati claimed that Mafanya scaled the wall to open the gate. Once inside, Groenewald allegedly shouted, “South African police, get down,” causing most occupants to flee. Mafanya reportedly detained three individuals inside the house, tying them with cable ties.

Soldati testified that during the search, empty Rolex watch boxes, jewellery containers, and a Mercedes key were discovered. Mafanya allegedly linked these findings to fraudulent operations involving counterfeit jewellery and cryptocurrency scams.

Allegations of Improper Conduct

During cross-examination, Soldati denied knowledge of altered vehicle number plates or the presence of jamming devices in Minnaar’s police vehicle. He also stated that no firearms were used during the incident and that none of the occupants sustained injuries. However, it was revealed that Groenewald was the only accused armed during the operation.

The court heard testimony regarding the aftermath of the alleged heist, including a vehicle search conducted at Gugulethu Police Station. Soldati criticised the investigating officer for failing to follow proper procedures during the search and arrest.

Soldati pleaded for bail, citing financial and familial responsibilities. He revealed that he has been unable to support his pregnant fiancée and family during his time in custody. Meanwhile, the court was informed that Groenewald’s medical aid benefits had been revoked following his suspension from the police force.

The bail hearing has been postponed to November 26 for further cross-examination.

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