Hawks Seize R15 Million Gold Bars, Arrest Zimbabwean, South African Men

Two men have been arrested by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) in Brakpan for the unlawful possession of gold valued at R15 million.

The suspects, a 33-year-old Zimbabwean man, Joachim Chivayo, and a 20-year-old South African citizen, Ayanda Brian Gungwa, were apprehended during a carefully coordinated operation aimed at combating illegal precious metal trading.

Hawks Pounce On Suspects

The arrests took place on Tuesday at approximately 1:15 PM as part of an ongoing investigation by the Gauteng Hawks’ serious organised crime team, in collaboration with the Hawks’ head office. According to Gauteng Hawks spokesperson Captain Lloyd Ramovha, the suspects were found in possession of six bars of unwrought gold, which they were attempting to sell.

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Ramovha confirmed that the seized gold, worth an estimated R15 million, highlights the serious nature of the crime, with both men facing charges for illegal possession of gold and violations of the Precious Metals Act. Additionally, law enforcement officials seized a Mercedes-Benz SUV during the operation.

Court Appearance

Chivayo and Gungwa made their first court appearance on Wednesday and were remanded in custody. The case was registered at the Brakpan police station, and further investigations are being conducted to trace the origin of the gold and uncover any additional individuals involved in the illegal trade.

Acting provincial head of the Hawks in Gauteng, Brigadier Paulina Sekgobela, praised the efforts of the team involved in the operation.

“The Gauteng Hawks remain steadfast in our commitment to uphold the law and protect our nation’s valuable resources. The diligence and coordination demonstrated by all team members in this operation are highly commendable,” she said.

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