A rapid response to information received regarding a traumatic incident by an armed gang in Jouberton last month has resulted in the arrest of eight suspects.
The incident, an attempted armed robbery, took place in Jouberton location and was followed by an investigation conducted by crime intelligence.
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Reports indicate that the suspects had used various social media platforms to advertise the sale of a Toyota Avanza vehicle. A potential buyer, who responded to the advert, and his companions were lured to a house in Jouberton for a transaction.
However, during the transaction, a group of unidentified individuals, some posing as police officers, entered the premises in an attempt to rob them. Fortunately, a child managed to escape and raise the alarm, causing the suspects to flee without committing the robbery.
Following the incident, a team consisting of Rustenburg and Provincial Crime Intelligence, Provincial Organised Crime, Potchefstroom Public Order Police (POP), and Potchefstroom Flying Squad was established.
The team received information about the gang’s plan to target another unsuspecting buyer. Under police surveillance, the suspects attempted to scam and rob the potential buyer who had responded to the same Toyota Avanza advertisement. However, the vigilant team swiftly apprehended the suspects on Friday, 22 March 2024.
The eight arrested individuals, aged between 25 and 48, are expected to appear in the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 25 March 2024.
They will face charges of armed robbery and impersonating a police officer. Investigations into the matter are ongoing, and the possibility of linking the suspects to other cases is being explored.
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Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, the Provincial Commissioner of North West, commended all team members for their commitment in dealing decisively with organized criminal groups such as this one.
The swift response and coordination between different law enforcement agencies have resulted in the successful apprehension of the suspects and the prevention of further criminal activities.
